Position in Research Area Syntax and Lexicon

Position in Research Area Syntax and Lexicon

The research area „Syntax and Lexicon“ at ZAS invites applications for a full (100%) position,

with a start date of February 1st, 2027 or soon thereafter. This is a fixed term position for the

duration of two years. This position is intended for scholars with at most 3 years of academic

employment post PhD (excluding periods of parental leave and similar). We are not able to

consider candidates at a more advanced career stage.

ZAS conducts research on the human capacity for language and its expression through

individual languages. The aim is to gain a better understanding of this central human ability and

its biological, cognitive and social factors. By exploring the structures of language, how they are

acquired, and how they are processed, this knowledge can also be applied to fields such as

speech diagnostics or speech technology. The area investigates the linking of simple lexical

units of meaning to build more complex syntactic structures. The research is based on formal

theories but is also interested in research infrastructure.

The candidate is expected to hold a PhD in morpho-syntactic theory by time of appointment.

Currently, the area focuses on agreement phenomena, the grammar of embedding, parallels in

nominal and clausal structure, and the grammar of code-switching and language contact.

Expertise in one or more of these areas is welcome. Skills and willingness for empirical

validation of data, such as work with corpora or experiments and an interest in under-

documented languages, are also welcome.

The responsibilities of the position include research as well as administrative work for ZAS.

Acquisition of additional projects within ZAS’s research theme structure is welcome. The

position is remunerated according to E13 of the German TVOeD pay scale. ZAS is an equal

opportunity employer.

ZAS is certified for ensuring family-friendly working conditions by the audit work and family

(berufundfamilie)”. ZAS strives to strengthen gender balance and diversity of staff in all working

areas and at all scientific levels. Members of groups traditionally underrepresented in German

academic positions as well as in science support positions are particularly encouraged to apply.

We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities. In addition, ZAS strives to

implement the principles of Open Science.

Applications must be submitted via electronic mail in a single pdf file to meinunger@leibniz-

zas.de by November, 15 and include the following four items:1) a letter of intent specifying

research experience and plans in detail, 2) a CV including a complete list of publications; 3) the

names of at least two scholars to be contacted for letters of recommendation, and 4) an

electronic copy of a representative publication in pdf-format: name file according to the scheme

your_surname_zas.pdf.