Dr Robert Wells is a speech pathologist and researcher. He has been a member of the Language and Literacy in Young People (LaLYP) research group since 2017. He is also a Lecturer in Speech Pathology at Curtin University, where his research focuses on Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), language and literacy development, and improving equitable access to services for children and young people.

Robert’s clinical experience working with school-aged children with language disorders underpins his research and teaching, particularly his focus on how language supports participation in education and everyday life. His work in narrative development and language intervention reflects a broader interest in how communication can enable young people to engage, learn and connect.

He is involved in collaborative and co-designed research, including the DLD Voices project, which brings together people with lived experience to shape research priorities in Australia.

Through LaLYP, Robert is committed to translating research into practical, accessible resources for educators, clinicians and families. His work emphasises collaboration, inclusion and the real-world impact of language and literacy research for children and young people.

Robert is the co-convener of the 2026 LaLYP Symposium with Dr Lizz Hill.