Postdoctoral Researcher – Genetic biasing of speech

The project “Genetic Biases in Speech and Language” awarded to Dr. Dan Dediu by the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) will investigate the genetic influences on the speech organs and their effects on phonetics and phonology. While genes do not directly act on speech and language, they can influence language change through biased cultural transmission across generations, playing a role in both linguistic universals and diversity. This is a highly inter-disciplinary project hosted by the Language and Genetics Department, and more information can be found at http://www.mpi.nl/departments/language-and-genetics/projects/genetic-biasing-in-language-and-speech.

Within this project, applications are invited for one full-time fixed-term postdoctoral position for 2 years with a possibility of extension.

Job description
The main focus will be on the identification and study of the parameters of the speech organs affecting cross-linguistic variation in phonetics and phonology, and will involve cross-disciplinary extensive literature reviews, experimental and computational work, and statistical data analysis using cutting-edge methods. The successful candidate will be involved in all aspects of the project, will actively participate in all its major stages, and will help supervising at least one PhD student.

The successful candidate will be part of the Language and Genetics Department led by Prof. Simon Fisher, will closely collaborate with the Language and Cognition Department led by Prof. Stephen Levinson, and will participate in cross-disciplinary activities such as reading groups and workshops.

Qualifications and background
Candidates should have a strong background in articulatory phonetics and speech production, supported by a PhD in Linguistics, Speech Sciences or allied disciplines. It is essential to have good quantitative and data analysis skills, and experience with laboratory techniques concerning speech production represents a major advantage. Interests and experience with computer modeling, evolutionary biology and genetics are desirable.

Salary and start date
The salary is according to the German TvöD and the applications will be reviewed on an on-going basis until the position is filled.

Application procedure
Please include a cover letter highlighting your qualifications and motivation, a CV containing a publications list highlighting one or two representative publications, a brief research statement and research plans, and the contact details of two referees. These should be sent as PDF documents by e-mail to Martina Bernhard (Martina.Bernhard@mpi.nl).