Book, coffee and vase on a table in a garden

English Language and Literature

100% of our research environment was classified as world leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*). We are ranked 10th in sector for research impact classified as outstanding (4*) out of 92 submissions and 13th in the sector for the percentage of our research overall (covering outputs, impact and environment) classified world leading(4*) or internationally excellent (3*) out of 92 submissions.

Research in the Department of English addresses the breadth of speaking, listening, writing, reading, and communicating, in a global language of many variants and in literatures of many types. Concentrations of research include new and international writing, language, data and society, drama and performance, literature and science, and science fiction, with areas such as ‘Northern Voices’ and gender and sexuality cutting through traditional disciplinary boundaries.

The English Department’s rich impact and public engagement agenda is enabling diverse audiences locally, nationally and internationally to access and benefit from our research. Our commitment to raising the profile of English is also reflected in five staff members succeeding in the BBC New Generation Thinkers scheme.

Our thriving research impact portfolio is the fruit of collaboration with a wide range of cultural, educational, environmental and health partnerships. Collaborative projects include exploring the impact of reduced access to the arts during COVID lockdowns and working to increase the diversity in contemporary British poetry. We work with Liverpool cultural institutions including the Everyman & Playhouse Theatres and Tate Liverpool. The annual Liverpool Literary Festival continues to be a book-lover’s highlight, attracting respected authors from across the world.

Back to: Research Excellence Framework 2021