Maria Kuteeva
Language is fundamental to the way we understand the world and interact with other people. Today, English is the world’s number one lingua franca, but has been influenced by other languages throughout its fascinating history.
For many people across the world, English opens doors – it is a language of opportunity. In my research, I have explored how English is used in educational and professional contexts by people who did not learn it their first language. This research has given me insight into the ways language works in society and how it can be learnt and taught.
I love teaching. Some of my courses explore how our world is shaped by and through our language uses; others focus on structural features of English – how different bits and pieces fit together.
At the Great gate, the Bodleian Library, University of Oxford. Photo: private
Working in the department of English has given me the opportunity to engage with people from very different backgrounds and walks of life. My former students have taken jobs as teachers, university lecturers, and communication specialists in different countries, including Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK.
Although English linguistics is a relatively young discipline, English is probably the most well-researched language in the world today. Did you know that the study of English has been shaped by people like J.R.R Tolkien and Noam Chomsky?
Maria Kuteeva is a Professor at our department.
In another in interview, Maria shares her insights on what makes advanced language studies both inspiring and valuable for international students.
Last updated: 2025-11-24
Source: Department of English