Liam Ralph

Liam Ralph is an Assistant Professor in Criminology at Northumbria University, specializing in policing, police legitimacy, and technology. He teaches undergraduate programs in Criminology and Policing, as well as police apprenticeship courses. Previously, he worked on an ESRC-funded Visible Policing project (2019) and at The Scottish Government’s Justice Analytical Services (2017-2018). His doctoral research (Edinburgh Napier University, 2020) focused on police legitimacy and social media dynamics in Scotland. He co-authored the 2023 Introduction to Policing textbook and is a frequent contributor to policing policy discussions.

Education: PhD in Criminology (Edinburgh Napier University, 2020), MRes in Criminology (University of Glasgow, 2015), BA (Hons) in Criminology (Edinburgh Napier University, 2014).

Research emphasizes police legitimacy, social media engagement, and democratic policing. Notable projects include analyses of visible policing practices, digital policing strategies during crises, and public confidence in law enforcement. He advises governmental bodies on emerging technologies in policing and has contributed expert statements to UK parliamentary committees.

Awards include the International Graduate Summer School for Policing Scholarship (2016) and the University Class Medal for Criminology (2014). His work addresses UN Sustainable Development Goals related to governance and public safety.