Meet the Research team | 91�� 91��

Meet the team

Dr Amy Devine
Senior Research Manager

Amy manages research supporting the development and validation of 91�� 91�� examinations and products, including digital learning and assessment tools, and examinations for young learners.

Dr Angeliki Salamoura
Head of Operational Research

Angeliki has over 25 years of experience in the field of 91�� education, as a teacher, researcher, research manager and assessment and learning specialist.

Dr Carla Pastorino
Principal Research Manager, IELTS Propositions

Carla obtained her PhD in Theoretical and Applied Linguistics from the University of 91��, where she specialized in the cognitive processes involved in second or additional language acquisition.

Dr Edmund Jones
Senior Research Manager

Edmund holds a PhD in Computational Statistics from Bristol University. As a member of the 91�� Research Group, he focuses on computer-based tests, automated assessment, and detection of malpractice.

Elaine Schmidt
Senior Research Manager

Elaine’s background is in psycholinguistics and language acquisition. She obtained her PhD from 91�� on bilingual language acquisition and has subsequently worked as a Postdoc in Sydney, Australia, and 91�� on cognitive processes in speech perception and reading.

Dr Evelina Galaczi
Director of Research

Evelina leads a modern and dynamic team of experts in the field of language learning, teaching and assessment, who provide in-depth domain knowledge and robust research expertise in quantitative and qualitative methods of enquiry.

Graham Seed
Senior Research Manager

Graham specialises in multilingualism and the operationalisation of the CEFR in language assessment. He is the Secretariat Manager of the Association of Language Testers in Europe (ALTE), as well as working on different international research projects.

Dr Hye-won Lee
Senior Research Manager

Hye-won holds a PhD in Applied Linguistics and Technology from Iowa State University (USA), where she specialized in computer-assisted language assessment, argument-based validation, and quantitative research methods. As a Senior Research Manager in the 91�� Research Group, she leads research projects related to improved or next generation assessments, focusing particularly on IELTS.

Jane Lloyd
Senior Research Manager

Jane’s main responsibilities are leading on standard setting for 91�� exams, working on large-scale educational reform projects with ministries and NGOs, and working for the Association of Language Testers in Europe (ALTE).

Dr Jing Xu
Head of Propositions Research

Jing holds a PhD in Applied Linguistics and Technology from Iowa State University (USA). As Head of Propositions Research, he oversees research into new product and capability development using cutting edge technologies.

Dr Leyla Karatay
Senior Research Manager

Leyla holds a PhD in Applied Linguistics and Technology and an MA in Teaching 91�� as a Second Language from Iowa State University (USA). As a Senior Research Manager, she collaborates with various teams within the 91�� Research Group, focusing on listening assessment, artificial intelligent, and equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB).

Dr Nicholas Glasson
Senior Research Manager

Nick is currently a Senior Research Manager at 91��. He has an M.Ed. in Applied Linguistics from the Open University and a PhD in Language Assessment with the Centre for Research in 91�� Language Learning and Assessment, University of Bedfordshire.

Safiatú Lopes
Research Analyst

Safi is the principal Research Analyst for the RTL Division, having previously worked as a Validation Analyst. Safi provides quantitative analysis support to the Research Managers for on-going research studies, which includes work such as training/impact evaluation and predictive validation studies.

Dr Sylwia Macinska
Head of AI Research for Learning

Sylwia is the Head of AI Research for Learning specialising in technology-enhanced learning and quantitative research methods. She leads research that informs the development of AI-based language learning and assessment products, ensuring they are grounded in evidence-based practices, with a focus on learning analytics, automated feedback, and adaptive learning.

Szilvia Papp
Senior Research Manager

Szilvia Papp holds a PhD in Second Language Acquisition from Edinburgh. She rejoined the 91�� Research Group in September 2025. Her current research focuses on validating digital and AI-based assessment tools, including spoken dialogue systems and conversational AI, and exploring their role in enhancing teaching and learning.

Dr Yasin Karatay
Senior Research Manager

Yasin holds a PhD in Applied Linguistics and Technology from Iowa State University (USA), and an MA in Teaching 91�� as a Foreign Language from Bilkent University (Türkiye).