Bérénice Darnault, PhD, is an early-career researcher and accredited lecturer specializing in applied linguistics, with a focus on second language acquisition (SLA) and psycholinguistics. Currently teaching at the Université Bretagne Sud, France, she blends research with a passion for language education, particularly in business English and communication. Her expertise extends to motivation, identity, and lifelong language learning, especially among senior learners. With international experience from esteemed institutions like the University of Barcelona and Cambridge, she has presented her work globally through conferences and workshops. Bérénice is committed to advancing the psychology of language learning, with several forthcoming publications in prestigious journals. She is also an engaging educator, capable of simplifying complex topics for students of all levels. 🌍📚💬
Professional Profile
Education🎓
Bérénice Darnault earned her PhD in Cognitive Science and Language from the University of Barcelona in 2023, where she focused on the motivational ecologies of senior language learners. Her thesis received the highest distinction, Cum Laude 🎓. Prior to that, she completed an MA in Modern and Medieval Languages from the University of Cambridge (2014) and an MA in European Studies from King’s College London (2013), both with distinction 🏆. Her undergraduate education also took place at Cambridge, where she earned a BA in Modern and Medieval Languages (2011). Her academic journey is marked by a multidisciplinary approach, blending linguistics, psychology, and cultural studies to address both theoretical and practical aspects of language learning 🧠🌱.
Professional Experience💼
Since 2024, Bérénice has been a research and teaching assistant at Université Bretagne Sud, where she delivers courses in English for international business, trade, and professional communication. Her teaching experience dates back to 2015, when she worked as a freelance English teacher and coach, mentoring university students and professionals in language learning. She has also taught at various levels, from primary school to university, across multiple countries, including Spain, France, and the UK 🌍. Additionally, she brings experience in project management and strategic planning from her work with European institutions, making her not only a researcher but also a capable administrator 💼. Her diverse teaching portfolio spans subjects such as negotiation, translation, and language for specific purposes, showcasing her versatility in applied linguistics 🌐📖.
Research Interest📘
Bérénice’s research interests lie at the intersection of second language acquisition (SLA), psycholinguistics, and the psychology of language learning 🧠📘. She focuses on understanding how motivational and emotional factors influence language learning, particularly among senior learners, using theoretical frameworks like self-determination theory and ecological systems theory 🌿. Her work explores the role of individual differences in language acquisition, including personality, intelligence, and engagement. She is especially interested in lifelong learning contexts, examining how learners’ identity, agency, and belief systems evolve over time 🌱. Her upcoming publications delve into motivational dynamics and well-being in senior language learning, reflecting her commitment to inclusive education and interdisciplinary research. Her expertise also extends to methodological innovation in applied linguistics, particularly in narrative inquiry and data collection 📊.
Award and Honor🏅
Bérénice Darnault has received multiple academic recognitions throughout her career. Her PhD from the University of Barcelona was awarded with Cum Laude distinction 🎖️, marking her exceptional contribution to the field of cognitive science and language. She also graduated with distinction in both of her Master’s degrees from the University of Cambridge (2014) and King’s College London (2013) 🎓🏅. These accolades highlight her academic excellence and commitment to pushing the boundaries of research in applied linguistics and second language acquisition. While still early in her career, her forthcoming publications in well-regarded journals indicate she is on a path to further recognition within the academic community. Her upcoming works are expected to make significant contributions to the fields of motivation, well-being, and language learning 🌱📜.
Conclusion
Bérénice Darnault’s early-career research achievements, strong academic foundation, and innovative contributions to second language acquisition and psycholinguistics make her a solid candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her commitment to lifelong learning, combined with her teaching and mentoring roles, showcases her dedication to academic growth and student success. With further expansion in research scope and higher visibility in her field, she is well-positioned to make significant and lasting contributions to applied linguistics, making her a deserving contender for the award.
Publications top noted📝
- Consoli, S., & Darnault, B. (Forthcoming, 2025). Innovative Use of Narrative Inquiry for Motivation Research. Innovation in Language Learning and Teaching, Special Issue. (Contribution: 50%) 📚💡📝
- Darnault, B. (Forthcoming, 2025). Lifelong Motivation and Foreign Language Learning: Perspectives from Later Life. Bristol: Multilingual Matters. 🌍📖📘
- Darnault, B. (Forthcoming, 2024). Motivation et bien-être dans l’apprentissage des langues chez les seniors. Les Langues Modernes. 🌱📘💬
- Darnault, B., Tragant, E., & Lasagabaster, D. (2024). Tracing the Dynamics of Motivational Self-Constructs Across the Lifespan: Tales from Senior Learners of English. System, 126, 103487. 🌍🧠📊
