PhD in Forensic Speech and Audio
Conduct a thorough research project on the forensic applications of phonetics, acoustics and computer science.
| Length | Start dates (semester dates) | |
|---|---|---|
| PhD |
3 year full-time Distance learning available |
January |
Join one of the world's most prominent and highly-ranked teaching and research centres for forensic speech science.
Your research
Forensic speech science is the application of methods from linguistics and phonetics, signal processing, and computer science to legal casework. This can involve: comparing the voices of an unknown criminal and a known suspect, determining the region and social background of an unknown criminal where a suspect does not exist, determining the content of a disputed utterance, orthographic transcription, as well as audio authentication and enhancement.
This course aims to facilitate complex and dynamic research on a topic relating to forensic speech science. You'll become part of a distinguished research community with an incredible reputation and given the opportunity to make your mark in the field. We work with colleagues across faculties, making research at York a truly interdisciplinary experience.
In your first year, you'll submit a 2000-word summary of your project so far, then a 5000-8000 word summary in your second year. Your third year will be the culmination of your project and you'll complete your 80,000-100,000 word thesis.
Funding
Explore funding for postgraduate researchers in the Department of Language and Linguistic Science.
Supervision
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Training and support
You'll be trained to use specialist equipment and in the implementation of lab techniques that are necessary in the industry. We'll work with you to ensure that you receive relevant training based on the topic of your research project.
Our Research Excellence Training team also offer a wide variety of workshops designed to help you thrive as an independent researcher. You'll work with your supervisor to create a Professional Development Plan (PDP) that will consolidate the support you receive throughout your degree.
You'll also be encouraged to engage with exciting communities and conferences in the field of forensic speech science, such as the International Association for Forensic Phonetics and Acoustics (IAFPA).
Course location
This course is run by the Department of Language and Linguistic Science
You'll mostly be based in Vanbrugh College on Campus West.
Careers and skills
Add information on what the research degree can offer and what skills it provides.
Our dedicated careers team offer specific support including a programme of professional researcher development and careers workshops and 1:1 career support sessions. They will help you to build up your employability portfolio and to engage in activities that will build up your skills and experience within and outside of your research work.
Career opportunities
- academic
- lecturer
- forensic linguist
- voice analyst
- evidence examiner
- crime analyst
Entry requirements
At least a merit (or equivalent) at masters level in a relevant discipline (e.g. linguistics, audio engineering, psychology, or computer science), as well as our standard English language requirements.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of your ability.
Check your English language requirements
Applying
Apply for the PhD in Forsenic Speech and Audio
Before applying, please contact the programme leader, Vincent Hughes (vincent.hughes@york.ac.uk) to discuss your fit within the course.
Alongside your application, you'll also need to submit a detailed research proposal. Take a look at the supporting documents you may need for your application.
Find out more about how to apply.
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