Committee bored of "social media and teens"? Here are 10 dissertation topics that actually interest reviewers right now

[DArlin]

I analyzed the 2025 search trends and the Qualtrics/Elite Academic data . The "hot" topics aren't generic anymore. They're granular.

Top 10 for 2026:

1. Algorithmic bias in AI writing assistants – How do LLMs reinforce gender stereotypes in automated feedback?
2. Digital twin simulations in social sciences – Can we model social systems to test policy interventions?
3. Gut microbiome and mental health – The biology-psychology interface .
4. ESG reporting and greenwashing – Not just "is it good?" but "how do stakeholders detect deception?"
5. Quantum computing and cybersecurity – Future-proofing encryption .
6. Neurodiversity in mainstream classrooms – Inclusion policies vs. actual student experience .
7. CRISPR ethics – Not "is it right?" but "who gets access?"
8. Remote work and organizational culture – The longitudinal effects (3+ years in) .
9. Decolonizing the curriculum – Beyond statements to measurable change .
10. Explainable AI (XAI) – Can we build models that justify their decisions?

Pro Tip: Interdisciplinary topics win. Follow the problem, not the department boundary