Our research
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.
Ranked second in the UK for the proportion of world-leading linguistics research in the UK
(Times Higher Education's ranking of the Research Excellence Framework 2014)
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.

Impact and engagement
Our research has a wide range of applications to health, social justice, equality, and education.
Highlights

Facilities
We have state-of-the-art facilities for research and for training:
University research themes
We lead collaboration across the University's research themes – areas of research excellence that cross departmental boundaries. We have strong partnerships within three themes:
Outreach
We promote our research results and wider expertise through annual or cyclic events in a variety of educational channels:

Publications
Search for research and browse publications in the York Research Database.
Explore publicationsResearch degrees
Push the boundaries of knowledge in our supportive and stimulating environment.
Study with usVisiting scholars
We welcome established academics and research students to our research community.
How to apply