Linguistics

Summary

The linguistic team at Ulster University welcomes applications for the PhD study in various areas of linguistics (syntax, semantics, language acquisition and processing, language disorders) from different perspectives (synchronic and diachronic, L1 and multilingualism) which match the research specialisms of the staff.

- Multilingualism

In Northern Ireland there are a number of multilingual communities, with different characteristics and needs. (a) what is the impact of age of onset on the acquisition of a second language? (b) Are all areas of language affected equally by the age of onset, cf. vocabulary vs. syntax? (c) What is the role of input in the acquisition of more than one language, in terms of frequency, quality and quantity of input? (d) what is the impact of the different typological/morphological features of the two (or more) languages, in terms of transfer of linguistic features from one language to the other during the process of acquisition?

Contact: Dr Christina Sevdali

- Synchronic and diachronic syntax

We welcome applications to study any aspect of the morpho- syntax of any language from both a synchronic and diachronic perspective. Both theoretically informed projects within the framework of Generative Grammar and descriptive projects would be suitable. Applicants are invited to contact potential supervisors for more specific information on appropriate research questions.

Contact: Professor Raffaella Folli

- Language acquisition and language processing

Projects in this area will focus on the experimental investigation of language; how it is acquired by children and processed by typical adults

Contact: Dr Juliana Gerard

- Language disorders

We welcome projects with a focus on developing our understanding of the nature or presentation of language and communication disorders in children and young people or in the development of linguistic assessment or intervention for these groups.

Contact: Dr Victoria Singer

- Semantics, syntax, and dialects of English

Projects in this area will focus on the relation between structure and meaning, possibly as it differs among dialects of English.

Contact: Dr Richard Stockwell

Applicants should upload a single document entitled “research proposal” and this should contain two parts:

• A short proposal about the  project to be undertaken (up to 500 words) and to be discussed at the interview if shortlisted
• A short piece of academic writing (published or unpublished)  from a previous research project (up to 4000 words).

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• Research proposal of 1500 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 70%

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.