Institute for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language Evolution (ISLE)

Postdoctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Phonological Typology 80 %

Start of employment 1 September 2026 or by arrangement, temporary

The Institute for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language Evolution (ISLE) at the University of Zurich invites applications for a 4-year Postdoctoral Researcher position. The position is associated with the research project "Uncovering the dynamics of sound patterns: phylogenetic approaches to phonological typology" funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation.

This project seeks to fill in the gaps in our understanding of the forces, both language-internal and language-external, that shape the evolution of sound patterns across languages, further integrating the subfield of phonological typology with evolutionary linguistics, a burgeoning research area that draws upon methods from computational biology and other disciplines in order to investigate a wide variety of questions regarding linguistic change.

The ISLE at the University of Zurich plays an important role in the activities of the National Center of Competence in Research (NCCR) Evolving Language, and fosters a vibrant environment that facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration.

Your responsibilities

The postdoc will lead and develop a series of studies using computational methodologies (e.g., phylogenetic methods) to investigate the forces involved in the stability and change of sound patterns within lexical items.

This is an 80% FTE position, which includes 20% teaching. The positions are offered as a one-year contract, with a potential extension by agreement to up to four years total.

Your profile

Successful applicants will have strong data science skills, including expertise and comfort with using scripting languages to carry out automated data curation, as well as familiarity with probabilistic programming languages (e.g., Stan). A strong background in phonology and/or phonetics is desirable. Experience with phylogenetic modeling is a plus. Excellent communication and teamwork are essential. Good oral and written communication in English is required.

Information on your application

For consideration, the following documents should be compiled into a single PDF titled "DynamicsofSoundPatterns-YourSurname-Postdoc.pdf":
  • a cover letter including a statement of motivation and qualifications (max 3 pp.)
  • curriculum vitae with publication list
  • contact information for two referees
  • one sample of written work
We will start reviewing applications on June 1, 2026.

For questions please contact Chundra Cathcart at chundra.cathcart@uzh.ch

What we offer

Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. Find out more: https://www.uzh.ch/de/explore/work.html.

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  • Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

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  • Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

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  • Free seasonal flu vaccinations
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  • Support for people from outside Switzerland

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Campuses
  • Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
  • Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

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Location

Institute for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language Evolution (ISLE)

Affolternstrasse 56, 8050 Zürich, Switzerland

Further information

Questions about the job

PD Dr. Chundra Cathcart Project Leader
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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!
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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! More
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