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Protecting our Girls? Power and agency in anti-immigration ‘grooming gang’ narratives

Aston University College of Business and Social Sciences
✓ Fully Funded ⏰ Closing Soon 🎓 Linguistics 🎓 Linguistics and Classics 🎓 Sociology critical discourse analysis gender media studies migration race social narratives social networks

Fully funded PhD at Aston University analysing anti-immigration narratives using sociological and socio-linguistic methods, focusing on discourse, power, and social media dynamics.

Project Description

This PhD project explores the emergence and development of the ‘protect our girls’ narrative within anti-immigration discourse. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research will combine social network analysis and critical discourse analysis to examine datasets from Reddit forums and traditional media. The study will investigate how these narratives evolve, spread, and become institutionalized. The project will analyze how language constructs power hierarchies, shapes inclusion and exclusion, and reinforces gendered and racialized narratives within public discourse.

Entry Requirements

First or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree and a Master’s degree (Merit or Distinction) in a relevant field
• Master’s degree in linguistics or related social science
• Familiarity with critical discourse analysis methods
• Understanding of sociological frameworks (desirable)
• Experience with social network analysis (desirable)
• English language proficiency (if applicable)

How to Apply

Submit a full application including transcripts, research statement, personal statement, CV, references, proof of English proficiency, and passport copy.

Eligibility

UK/Home
EU
International

Supervisor Profile

DG
Dr Graeme Hayes; Dr Amy Booth
Aston University, College of Business and Social Sciences

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