Dr Pier Pischedda
Lecturer in Linguistics and Intercultural Studies
Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
Chartered Linguist (CL)
Academic | Scholar | Linguist | Translator
Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
Chartered Linguist (CL)
Academic | Scholar | Linguist | Translator
I am a Lecturer in Linguistics and Intercultural Studies in the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies at the University of Leeds, UK.
I began teaching at the University of Leeds in 2011 as a Teaching Assistant in the Centre for Translation Studies. In 2012, I then enrolled in an AHRC-funded PhD in Applied & Historical Linguistics while also working as a Tutor. After completing my PhD, I was then promoted to a permanent Lecturer position in 2019.
My passion for languages began at a young age in Italy, where I would watch cartoons in English, fascinated by the dialogue I couldn’t yet understand. I later attended a linguistics high school, studying Latin, English, French, and German. As a teenager, I developed a keen interest in American and Japanese comic books, which led me to pursue studies in Japanese and American Studies at University. During my undergraduate years at the University of Turin, inspiring courses in translation studies sparked a deeper interest in the field, motivating me to pursue an MA in Translation abroad. After completing my MA, I established a freelance business as a translator, which I ran successfully from 2011 until 2023, when I transitioned to a full-time role as a Lecturer.
In June 2025, I was awarded Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) in recognition of my commitment to professional teaching practice and student learning in higher education. I am also a Chartered Linguist (CL), a professional designation recognising both my academic expertise and my extensive experience as a freelance linguist.
My research interests are a blend of the hobbies and academic pursuits I have cultivated over the years. I focus on historical linguistics, contact linguistics, and the use of language in multimodal media, particularly comic books, video games, and picture books. I have published research on the translation and use of sound symbolism in children's literature.
I try to bring my passion for linguistics, languages, and education into every lecture and seminar that I teach – always striving to create an enjoyable learning experience for all my students.
Qualifications
PhD Applied Linguistics, University of Leeds (2017)
MA Applied Translation Studies, University of Leeds (2011)
BA Japanese & American Studies, University of Turin (Italy) (2010)
Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) - D2 (June 2025)
Chartered Linguist (CL) Educator (July 2025)
Professional Memberships
Member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists (MCIL)
Full Member of The Society of Authors
An updated digital CV is available through my Linkedin profile.