Meet Dr Ayesha Chowdhury, Lecturer in Law here at Salford Business School, and a keen academic who has spent years researching a series of complex legal fields, including Terrorism Law, Human Rights Law, and Legal Ethics and Concepts. Inspired by her family’s own passion for education, she decided early in her career to leave her prestigious Barrister role and pursue a role in academia. She now spends her time aiming to cultivate a diverse new generation of solicitors who are ready to tackle the complex challenges of the legal field.
Ayesha not only supports budding legal professionals, but she also assists prospective academics who are researching Human Rights and Terrorism Law related topics.
How did you get into academia as a career path?
I was inspired by my mother, who is a professor of Islamic History. As a child, I didn’t fully appreciate her career choice, I even thought it was overly laborious at the time! But looking back, she subconsciously motivated me to pursue research. Though I was trained as a barrister, I ultimately chose academia because of my deep passion for scholarship and intellectual exploration. Training future legal professionals gives me a deep sense of satisfaction.
Why did you choose to work at the University of Salford?
I chose the University of Salford for its multi-cultural location and the unique diversity of its student community. The role also perfectly aligned with my expertise, allowing me to contribute meaningfully from the start. But as a new mother at the time, the outstanding on-campus nursery was a deciding factor, it gave me the support I needed to balance career and family.
Three years later, I can confidently say it was the right choice, both professionally and personally.
What’s the best thing about being an academic at Salford?
The best thing about being an academic at Salford is the dynamic blend of professional growth and meaningful connections. The University facilitates professional development, offering opportunities for research, networking and collaboration, all within a supportive and collegial environment. In all honesty, what truly stands out is the interaction with students; their diverse backgrounds and perspectives make teaching incredibly rewarding.
The bonus is being part of a positive work culture where colleagues genuinely collaborate. Salford strikes the perfect balance between academic rigour and a community that cares.
Can you tell us about any of your career highlights to-date?
Some of my most rewarding career highlights include carving out my own academic identity through research and scholarship which is inspired by a strong network of inspiring professionals.
As a whole, nothing compares to the joy of mentoring students, seeing them develop intellectually and professionally is incredibly fulfilling.
Another proud achievement has been organising conferences and being a member of various important committees that inform policies. Each of these experiences has shaped my journey in academia and reaffirmed my passion for this path.
What’s your current research focused on?
My current research focuses on Martyn’s Law and its implications for counter-terrorism and event security. I’m examining how The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 can balance public safety with practical implementation, particularly in crowded spaces. This work sits at the intersection of counter-terrorism policy, risk management, and the protection of civil liberties.
Do you have any published papers we can read?
My latest publication is a book chapter titled: ”A capability approach towards achieving sustainable development goal 16.a: Prevent violence and combat terrorism: Bangladesh as a case study.”
And finally, the all important question, where in Manchester or Salford is best to grab a coffee?
For the best coffee in Salford? I like the charming little café inside the Salford Museum, it’s my go-to spot near campus. The atmosphere is cozy, I am a tea person and the tea is excellent, and it’s surrounded by local history!