语法方向博士职位

Institution/Organization: University of Konstanz

Level: PhD

Duties: Research, Project Work

Specialty Areas: Syntax

Description:

Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) in Syntax University of Konstanz (TV-L E13, 65%, until December 2029)

The newly established Collaborative Research Centre SFB 1760 “Silence, Noise and Signal in Language” at the University of Konstanz investigates the role of silence and noise in our capacity for perceiving, learning, and producing linguistic signals. The SFB brings together theoretical, experimental, computational, and empirical research in linguistics with projects from computer science, computational social science, media studies, and sociology. More information about the SFB and its scientific aims is available at: https://www.sfb1760.uni-konstanz.de/about-us/scientific-aim/

Within the SFB, project A06 “Interactions of ellipsis and wh-dependencies” is seeking to fill a doctoral researcher position (TV-L E13, 65%), starting October 1, 2026 and funded until the end of 2029. The doctoral researcher will pursue a dissertation within the framework of the project under the supervision of Dr. Luise Schwarzer.

Project A06 investigates how wh-dependencies can interact with predicate ellipsis. Verbal predicate ellipses can block some, but not all wh-dependencies. This pattern has been used as an argument for a particular model of syntax, even though the underlying data is not unequivocal. It is still unclear (i) what the syntactic and semantic conditions are that make ellipsis possible, (ii) how many different types of ellipsis there are in syntax, and (iii) what conclusions we can draw from the interaction of ellipsis with other syntactic processes about the structure of the grammar. Project A06 focuses on modal complement ellipsis and investigates syntactic and semantic conditions that block or ameliorate wh-extraction out of predicate ellipsis sites. The aim of A06 is the development of improved models of syntactic theory on the basis of experimental methods. More information about project A06 is available at: https://www.sfb1760.uni-konstanz.de/research-projects/project-group-a/a06-schwarzer-interactions-of-ellipsis-and-wh-dependencies

The doctoral researcher will develop and test hypotheses related to these questions through experimental studies and will contribute to the theoretical development of the project.

Candidates should hold an M.A. degree (or equivalent) in linguistics and have a strong background and research interest in syntax and/or semantics. An interest in experimental approaches to syntax is desired. Candidates should have a very good command of English. Native knowledge of a Germanic or a Romance language is desirable. Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills are expected. Knowledge of statistics and experience with acceptability judgment experiments are an advantage.

The position offers the opportunity to pursue a PhD within the interdisciplinary research environment of SFB 1760 “Silence, Noise and Signal in Language” at the University of Konstanz and to collaborate with researchers at doctoral, postdoctoral, and professorial levels. The University of Konstanz also provides extensive career development and equal-opportunity support.

The salary follows the German public-sector collective agreement TV-L, pay grade E13 (65%), which can comfortably support living in Konstanz. The position is available from October 1, 2026 (but will remain open until filled) until the end of 2029.

The University of Konstanz is committed to ensuring an environment that provides equal opportunities and promotes diversity as well as a good balance between university and family life. As an equal opportunity employer, the University strives to increase the number of women working in research and teaching. It also supports working couples through its dual career program. Persons with disabilities are explicitly encouraged to apply and will be given preference if appropriately qualified.

Application Deadline: 15-Sep-2026 Application Instructions: Applications should include (i) a short motivation letter (1-2 pages), (ii) an academic CV, (iii) copies of all previous degrees, including detailed transcripts of records, and (iv) the names and email addresses of two academic referees to be contacted at a later time.

Email Address for Applications: [email protected]

Contact Information: Luise Schwarzer Contact Email: [email protected]