Ever wondered how language can help solve crimes? Can a ransom note, an online threat, or a suspicious letter reveal the identity of its author? Forensic linguistics is the science of analyzing language as evidence, and at our upcoming event, you’ll get to step into the role of a linguistic detective!
đź“… Date: Tuesday, April 1st
⏰ Time: 6:30 PM
đź“Ť Location: 10 Wash Pl, Room 104
🍕 Dinner catered!
What’s happening?
Guest Speaker: Professor Robert A. Leonard (Hofstra University)
We’re honored to have one of the nation’s top forensic linguists, Dr. Robert Leonard, join us via Zoom to kick off the event. With hundreds of cases under his belt, he has consulted for the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, Facebook, and the British government, using linguistic analysis to uncover deception, identify suspects, and exonerate innocent people in high-profile cases.
Linguistic & Cryptographic Puzzles
After Dr. Leonard’s introduction to methods and some famous cases he’s worked on, you’ll put forensic linguistics to the test with hands-on challenges—specifically material he’s used to train FBI agents.
Why Attend?
- Learn how forensic linguists solve crimes.
- Test your language and logic skills.
- Meet fellow linguistics enthusiasts and enjoy a catered dinner!
- Explore career paths in crime-solving, cybersecurity, and intelligence.
Want to learn more?
- Watch this 5-minute video of Prof. Leonard explaining forensic linguistics.
- Check out this 2012 New Yorker article about cases he’s worked on.
No prior knowledge needed—just curiosity and a love of language! We can’t wait to see you there.
All best,
E-Board
NYU League of Linguistics 