PhD candidate in South-American comparative linguistics and anthropology

Faculty of Humanities, Leiden University Centre for Linguistics has a vacancy for a

PhD candidate in South-American comparative linguistics and anthropology 

Project description/ Key responsibilities

The Descriptive and Comparative Linguistics group at the Leiden University Center for Linguistics invites applicants for a PhD position in South-American comparative linguistics and anthropology. The main task of the PhD candidate will be to reconstruct, to the extent possible, the socio-historical processes that have led to the current and past distributions of languages and language attributes in South America, by taking an areal-typological approach, combined with regionally informed qualitative contextualization. The project is carried out in close cooperation with another PhD project at the University of Utrecht, which focuses on the role of the biophysical environment in shaping patterns of diversity. Tasks include data collection from written sources, database curating, both quantitative and qualitative analysis.

The project (https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/research/research-projects/humanities/evolution_linguistic_diversity_south_america) is funded by the NWO (Open Competition L grant). In the context of this project we offer a unique chance to work in a truly multi-disciplinary context, which gives you the possibility to expand your horizon to other disciplines, cooperate with experienced scholars, and contribute to creating new knowledge about the history of South America. We furthermore offer close supervision and support in developing, operationalizing, and presenting your ideas.

Selection criteria

• MA degree in linguistics or related discipline (we will also consider degrees in anthropology and/or computational linguistics if affinity with historical linguistics can be shown).
• Demonstrable training in comparative linguistics, and an affinity with contact linguistics and South American indigenous languages and cultures.
• Fluent in English, preferably also in Spanish; Portuguese is considered an advantage.
• Experience with database work and programming skills are considered an advantage.
• Cooperative and open-minded attitude.
• We especially encourage candidates from South America to apply.

Research at our faculty/ institute
Leiden University Centre for Linguistics (LUCL) is one of seven Institutes that falls under the Faculty of Humanities. With over 120 linguists working at the Institute, it is a rich research environment that prides itself on fostering scientific excellence.

LUCL has a longstanding tradition in the study of the world’s languages and features unique linguistic expertise. Current theoretical insights are combined with modern experimental methods in its research profile area ‘Language Diversity in the World’. Researchers from our six umbrella research groups are experts in their respective fields but equally find innovative ways of collaborating with other fields and disciplines.

The Faculty of Humanities is rich in expertise in fields such as philosophy, religious studies, history, art history, literature, linguistics and area studies covering nearly every region of the world. With its staff of 995, the faculty provides 27 master’s and 25 bachelor’s programmes for over 7,000 students based at locations in Leiden and in The Hague. For more information: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/humanities.

Terms and conditions
Appointment will be according to the terms of the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO Nederlandse Universiteiten). The employment will be for a period of four years (first a contract of 18 months with an extension of 30 months after positive evaluation of capabilities and compatibility), starting January 1st 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. The appointment must lead to the completion of a PhD thesis.

The salary range for a PhD candidate is from € 2,872.- to € 3,670.- gross per month (pay-scale PhD candidates in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities), with substantial additional holiday and end-of-year bonuses. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. You are expected to work in Leiden.

Diversity
Fostering an inclusive community is a central element of the values and vision of Leiden University. Leiden University is committed to becoming an inclusive community which enables all students and staff to feel valued and respected and to develop their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High quality teaching and research is inclusive.

Information

For further information on this project see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/research/research-projects/humanities/evolution_linguistic_diversity_south_america or contact Rik van Gijn, email e.van.gijn@hum.leidenuniv.nl, or on practical matters Maarit van Gammeren, email m.s.k.van.gammeren@hum.leidenuniv.nl.

Applications
Applications should be submitted no later than 6 October 2024 (23:59 CET) via the blue button in our application system.
Applicants should submit online:

• A motivation letter
• A detailed curriculum vitae
• Names, positions and contact information of two referees (no reference letters).
• Interviews are planned in the week of 21 October 2024.

Enquiries from agencies are not appreciated.