Joseph R. Duffy, Ph.D.

The research interests of Joseph R. Duffy, Ph.D., include neurologic motor speech disorders (the dysarthrias and apraxia of speech), acquired language disorders (aphasia) and acquired psychogenic speech disturbances. The primary focus of his research has been on defining the distinguishing clinical characteristics of these neurologic disorders, establishing their neurologic correlates and refining their differential diagnosis.

Focus areas

• Defining the distinguishing speech and language characteristics and neuroimaging correlates of primary progressive apraxia of speech and the major variants of primary progressive aphasia

Significance to patient care

Dr. Duffy's research will contribute to more accurate clinical diagnosis of these conditions and the ability to predict their neurological localization and underlying disease process. This will have implications for early identification of certain acquired neurological diseases and their early medical treatment when effective treatments become available.