Christian Ilbury

I am a sociolinguist who is principally interested in exploring the social meaning of variable patterns of language.

My research explores the intersection of digital culture and language variation and change. I am an interdisciplinary scholar utilizing methods and approaches from sociolinguistics, (linguistic) anthropology, and media studies.

I am particularly interested in exploring variable patterns of language across offline (i.e., face-to-face) and online (i.e., social media) space. Most of my research has focussed on the digital and linguistic practices of young people.

I am also interested in language, politics, and globalisation. My work has examined the sociolinguistic dynamics of gentrification, the effects of standard language ideology and youth language, and the impact of accent bias on perceptions of professional competence.

Prior to this appointment, I held teaching and research positions at Queen Mary University of London, the University of York, Newcastle University, the University of Suffolk, and Regents University London.