Alistair Baron

Dr Alistair Baron is a Senior Lecturer at Lancaster University's School of Computing and Communications, with dual expertise in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Cyber Security. He applies computational linguistics to counter online deception, focusing on fake profiles, social engineering, and forensic applications. His work bridges linguistic analysis with security solutions, including multi-lingual text processing, spelling variation normalisation, and crisis management decision-support systems.

• Ph.D. Computer Science (Lancaster University, UK)
• B.Sc. (Hons) Computer Science (Lancaster University, UK)

Research interests span robust NLP tool development for cyber-security, with emphasis on:

• Deception detection in digital personas
• Spelling variation in historical and online texts
• Machine learning for forensic investigations
• Semantic tagging using historical thesauri
• GIS-Integrated textual analysis
• Online child protection systems

His recent publications demonstrate interdisciplinary focus, combining NLP with security applications (2016-2023). Key projects include insider threat detection, semantic annotation of historical texts, and penetration testing standardisation research. Awards include the Faculty of Science and Technology Research Fellowship and FHEA teaching accreditation.