Research Centers
The Department of Spanish and Portuguese is home to three distinguished research centers: the Center for Basque Studies, the Center for Catalan Studies, and the Center for Portuguese Studies.
These centers support advanced research, interdisciplinary initiatives, and cultural programming focused on the Basque-, Catalan-, and Portuguese-speaking worlds. They offer dynamic spaces for scholarly exchange, foster collaboration among faculty and students, and contribute to the promotion of linguistic and cultural diversity within the university and beyond.
The Bilingualism, Translation, and Cognition Laboratory
The Bilingualism, Translation, and Cognition Laboratory (BTCL), directed by Professor Aline Ferreira at UC Santa Barbara, explores the cognitive processes involved in bilingualism, translation, and interpretation. The lab investigates how different bilingual experiences shape behavior and group interactions, using methods such as eye-tracking, behavioral measures, and other experimental techniques. Located in 4325 Phelps Hall, BTCL collaborates with language service providers, neuroscientists, and translation professionals to advance research and professional practice. Its work aims to improve communication and accessibility for bilingual individuals and communities, especially in critical fields like healthcare, law, and education.