Research in language and linguistic science
Source: https://www.york.ac.uk/language-linguistic-science/research/ Parent: https://www.york.ac.uk/language-linguistic-science/study/undergraduate/
Our research is cross-disciplinary and collaborative, with a focus on exploring the development, use and acquisition of linguistic systems.
Language is unique to humans and central to virtually all human activity. Studying it provides a window on the mind, on people and on society.
We adopt a pluralistic approach to the language sciences and do not privilege any single theoretical framework or methodological approach.
The Research Excellence Framework 2021
- We’re ranked 1st in the UK for the quality of our research - according to the Times Higher Education’s ranking of the latest REF results (2021). Also, 100% of our research impact was rated 4* - REF’s highest rating.
Learn more about the 2021 REF results
Research strengths
Understanding the complex nature of language, be it as a means of communication and thought, as a social tool, as an expression of identity, as a multimodal phenomenon, as a window into history and the mind, and as a formal system – is best achieved by the simultaneous pursuit of multiple approaches.
Phonetics and Phonology
Forensic Speech Science
Sociolinguistics
Language History and Language Diversity
Syntax, Semantics and Pragmatics
Conversation Analysis
Psycholinguistics
Impact and engagement
Our research has a wide range of applications to health, social justice, equality, and education.
Highlights
- Inspiring students and teachers of English Language
- Can your accent be a barrier to your employment prospects?
- Enhancing the quality of psychological interventions delivered by telephone
- Identifying the phonetic characteristics of spoken threats
- Book of Refugees
Facilities
We have state-of-the-art facilities for research and for training:
Outreach
We promote our research results and wider expertise through annual or cyclic events in a variety of educational channels:
- York English Language Toolkit
- Online Course: Accents, Attitudes and Identity
- Continuing Professional Development
Publications
Search for research and browse publications in the York Research Database.
Research degrees
Push the boundaries of knowledge in our supportive and stimulating environment.
News and events
Check out our latest news.
Visiting scholars
We welcome established academics and research students to our research community.