Postdoctoral Researchers in Cognitive Anthropology, Archaeology and Linguistics
University of Zürich Institute for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language Evolution
The Institute for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language Evolution (ISLE)
Postdoctoral Researchers (2) in Cognitive Anthropology, Archaeology and Linguistics 80 %
Start of employment 1 September 2026 or by arrangement, temporaryThe Institute for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language Evolution (University of Zurich) invites applications for two postdoctoral positions in Cognitive Anthropology, Cognitive Archaeology or Comparative Linguistics.
Your responsibilities
The positions will contribute to an interdisciplinary project investigating the history of abstract concepts in the cultures of Australia and Papua, as described in this announcement.
The project is situated in the Anthropological Linguistics Group at ISLE, and will also be connected with a much broader research consortium, the NCCR Evolving Language.
These are 80% FTE positions, which include 20% teaching. The positions are offered as a one-year contract, with a potential extension by agreement to up to three years total.
The project is situated in the Anthropological Linguistics Group at ISLE, and will also be connected with a much broader research consortium, the NCCR Evolving Language.
These are 80% FTE positions, which include 20% teaching. The positions are offered as a one-year contract, with a potential extension by agreement to up to three years total.
Your profile
You have a solid background, including PhD and journal publications, in a relevant discipline such as anthropology, archaeology, or linguistics. You have a demonstrated interest in culturally specific cognition, semantics and cultural history. You also have strong data science skills, likely including Bayesian statistics. Phylogenetic inference, and phylogeographic reconstruction will be important for at least one of the two positions.
You will be joining a team of outstanding researchers, emphasising teamwork and interdisciplinarity. Excellent communication and teamwork are essential. Good oral and written communication in English is required.
You will be joining a team of outstanding researchers, emphasising teamwork and interdisciplinarity. Excellent communication and teamwork are essential. Good oral and written communication in English is required.
Information on your application
Review of applications will begin on 6 April, and continue until the position is filled.To apply, please prepare the following documents:
- A cover letter (1-2 pages) describing your previous experience and research interests, with a motivation to apply for the present position (PDF upload)
- A CV, including a publication list (PDF upload)
- Contact information (name, position, and e-mail addresses) of two references
- One or two writing samples/publications that demonstrate your qualifications for the position (PDF upload)
What we offer
Work-Life Balance
- Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
- Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
Learning and Development
- Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
- Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich
Food
- Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
- Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution
Healthcare
- Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
- Free seasonal flu vaccinations
- Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower
Discounts
- Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
- Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
- Special conditions on hotel reservations
Conditions of Employment
- Policies of the UZH
- Most UZH staff are employed according to public law
International Services
- Support for people from outside Switzerland
Campuses
- Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
- Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg
Location
The Institute for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language Evolution (ISLE)
Affolternstrasse 56, 8050 Zürich, SwitzerlandFurther information
Questions about the job
John Mansfield Project LeaderThank you for your message. We will get back to you shortly.
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!