I get so much email that I can’t reply to all of it. Even in the best of circumstances, I often can’t reply right away. So here is a brief guide on whether to email me (if you haven’t already), and what to expect (if you have).

tl;dr

• To discuss (hiring me for) research, email [email protected].
• To discuss teaching, admin, or other university business, email [email protected].
• To ask for a reference for someone who has worked with me, email [email protected]
• I don’t have bandwidth to answer emails asking for jobs or studentships, or about university business that doesn’t involve me.

Do you have a specific question related to my published research?

Email [email protected], and please also email my coauthors, who may be able to reply more quickly.

Do you want to hire me for consulting work or a new job?

Email [email protected]. Please be patient waiting for a reponse.

Are you a friend and/ or (former) research student?

I would love to hear from you! Please email my personal address if you have it, otherwise one of the other addresses on this page.

Are you a (former) PhD / MSc / UG thesis student or employee in need of a reference?

I would love to help! Please email [email protected], and provide as much detail as you can about the position and your application. I’d appreciate as much advance notice as you can give me.

Are you a (former) taught student in need of a reference?

Unless I know you well, the best I can provide is a brief synopsis of your performance in my course(s), which is of limited value for most job or PhD applications. If a brief synopsis suffices, I’ll happily supply one: email [email protected]. However, for most job or PhD applications, you will be best served by a reference from someone who has worked with you closely and knows your work well.

Are you an employer seeking a reference for one of my (former) students or employees?

I will be happy to provide a reference. Email [email protected] with details.

Are you seeking a studentship or other position with me?

I am accepting PhD students only. Email [email protected] after first reading the my advice for prospective team members.

Are you seeking information about courses or programmes at the university?

I am the course organiser for FNLP and the Year Organiser for Informatics UG4 and UG5 students. For questions related to either, email [email protected]. I can’t help with anything else, and am unlikely to respond.

Are you interested in other university business?

I am unlikely to respond to emails about university business unless I’m obliged or already committed.

Are you interested in something not covered by the answers above?

It is unlikely that I will respond to emails on other topics. My time is finite, and every email I respond to chips away at the time that I have for the people that matter to me.