18–19 September 2025 | Campus Condorcet, Aubervilliers, Paris

Organized by the Center for East Asian Linguistics (CRLAO, CNRS) and the Laboratory of Phonetics and Phonology (LPP, CNRS)

With this conference, we aim to explore the potential for instrumental phonetic methods to bolster the documentation of endangered languages and to reflect on the role of phonetics in the classification of under-documented languages.

Under-documented languages—such as many within the Tibeto-Burman family—hold considerable potential for advancing our understanding of phonological typology and processes of sound change. However, fully realizing this potential may require the integration of instrumental and experimental phonetics into more established methodologies of documentary and descriptive linguistics.

Analytical approaches such as acoustic analysis of phonemes and tonal systems, articulatory descriptions, and aerodynamic studies provide valuable, complementary tools. These methods not only enrich synchronic descriptions of under-documented languages but also lay the groundwork for identifying sound correspondences with related varieties and refining phonological typologies. By combining descriptive phonetics with modern instrumental techniques, researchers can produce more robust and nuanced accounts of phonological systems.

This workshop aims to explore how instrumental and experimental phonetics can contribute to the study and classification of under-documented languages. We invite discussions on topics such as:

- The role of descriptive phonetics in documenting and analyzing under-resourced languages;

- Correlations between articulatory and acoustic features in under-documented languages;

- The interaction between articulation and perception in shaping phonological systems;

- Applications of instrumental techniques such as electropalatography, ultrasound imaging in phonetic fieldwork;

- The place of tone languages and complex prosodic systems within phonological typologies;

- Studies on voice quality and intra-/inter-speaker variation in phoneme production;

- Contributions to phonological databases aimed at enriching existing typologies.

We invite contributions addressing any of the above topics. Submissions focusing on lesser-known Tibeto-Burman languages are especially encouraged.

Submission Guidelines

Abstracts should not exceed 1,000 words, including tables, figures, and references. 

- Deadline for abstract submission: 1 June 2025  

- Notification of acceptance: 10 July 2025  

- Workshop dates: 18–19 September 2025, Paris

Abstracts can be submitted via the conference site at:

https://phon-udl.sciencesconf.org

We encourage all interested participants to use this platform for their submissions.

If you have any questions or encounter any difficulties, please do not hesitate to contact us at the following address: 

phon-udl@sciencesconf.org

This conference will be held in hybrid mode, allowing participants to present their papers either in person or remotely. We are looking forward to receiving contributions from colleagues both near and far.

Thank you for your attention, we look forward to receiving your contributions!

The organizing committee