Summary
The Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics (AIFL) is offering a fully-funded PhD scholarship for a three-year program, commencing in January 2026. This prestigious opportunity is open to candidates interested in conducting rigorous, high-impact research in forensic linguistics, language and law, or forensic data science. The scholarship covers full tuition fees (UK or international), an annual stipend of £21,805, and a conference fund of £1000 per year.
Designation
PhD Researcher / Doctoral Candidate
Scholarship Details
| Scholarship Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Type | Fully-Funded PhD Scholarship |
| Commencement Date | January 2026 |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| Tuition Fees | Covered (UK or International) |
| Stipend | £21,805 annually |
| Conference Fund | £1,000 annually |
Research Area
The PhD project can be in any area of:
- Forensic Linguistics
- Language and Law
- Forensic Data Science
Applicants are encouraged to submit a detailed research proposal with their application.
Location
This position is based on the Aston Campus in Birmingham, UK. The successful candidate will be expected to reside within a reasonable distance of the campus and visit in person regularly.
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve:
- A First or Upper Second Class Honours undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.
- A Masters degree with Merit or Distinction in a relevant subject.
Qualifications from overseas institutions will be considered if they are equivalent to the described criteria. International applicants are welcome to apply but must meet financial requirements for visas, flights, and the NHS Surcharge.
Scholarship Description
The Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics (AIFL), founded in 2008 and significantly expanded in 2019, focuses on language use in legal and forensic contexts. AIFL aims to produce academically rigorous, high-impact research to improve the delivery of justice. The successful candidate will receive extensive training opportunities from AIFL and through The Aston Graduate School’s Doctoral Training Programme. Supervision is available from a diverse team of experts whose research interests can be found on Aston Research Explorer.
How to Apply
Applications must be complete and include all supporting documents to be considered. Incomplete applications will be automatically rejected. Before applying, candidates should approach their preferred supervisor to discuss their proposal.
Required Application Documents:
- English language copies of transcripts and certificates for all higher education degrees (including Bachelor’s).
- A Research Statement detailing understanding of the research area, proposed approach, and a brief literature review. There is no set format or word count.
- A Personal Statement outlining suitability for research, career aspirations, future research interests, and relevant employment experience.
- A Curriculum Vitae (Resume) detailing education and work history.
- Two academic references on headed paper, signed, and dated no more than 2 years old. At least one reference should be from the most recent university. References can be submitted later if necessary.
- Evidence of meeting English Language requirements. This can be submitted later if not currently met.
- A copy of your passport, including evidence of settled or pre-settled status where relevant.
Interviews are likely to take place the week commencing 19th October 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly with interview details.
Last Date for Apply
Please refer to the application portal for the exact deadline. Interviews are scheduled for the week of 19th October 2026, implying applications must be submitted well in advance of this date.
Apply Link
For further information about the application process, please contact the Postgraduate Admissions team. For informal discussions about the project, contact Prof Krzysztof Kredens at k.j.kredens@aston.ac.uk.
