Postdoctoral Fellowship in Natural Language Processing and Representation Learning of Metaphorical Language at University of Copenhagen

The University of Copenhagen is inviting applications for a two-year postdoctoral fellowship in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Representation Learning of Metaphorical Language in Large Language Models (LLMs). The position is based at the Centre for Language Technology (CST), Department of Nordic Studies and Linguistics, Faculty of Humanities. The successful candidate will join the METALLM project, which investigates how LLMs process metaphors and what this reveals about language, cognition, and culture. The research will focus on exploring metaphor encodings in LLMs, examining the internal dynamics of these models when processing metaphors, and their relationship to human cognition and culture. The project aims to explain how LLMs map the literal form of metaphors to their linguistic and cultural meanings, leveraging knowledge graphs and language-specific resources. The CST is a leading research center with a strong international profile, conducting research in NLP, computational cognitive modeling, multimodality, and digital humanities. The center collaborates with the Department of Computer Science and offers an international MSc in IT and Cognition, as well as teaching at various BA and elective programs. The environment is dynamic and international, with frequent visiting researchers and major conferences organized in the field. Applicants should have a PhD in computational linguistics, NLP, or a related area, with a strong publication record in top conferences (ACL, EMNLP, COLING, LREC). Experience in independent research, research collaborations, and research management is required. Teaching experience is not mandatory but can be included. The position is fully funded by the Independent Research Fund Denmark, with a starting salary of DKK 39,200 (EUR 5,200) per month plus pension. The start date is 1 August 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The application deadline is 15 March 2026. To apply, candidates must submit their application online, including a motivation letter, CV, documentation of qualifications, publication list, up to three selected publications, research plan, and documentation of teaching competencies if available. Applications must be in English. For more information, contact Associate Professor Ali Basirat ([email protected]) or Professor Bolette Sandford Pedersen ([email protected]). The University of Copenhagen is committed to equality of opportunity and encourages all qualified candidates to apply. Relevant research areas include Natural Language Processing, Representation Learning, Metaphorical Language, Large Language Models, Computational Linguistics, and Cognitive Science. The position offers an excellent opportunity to advance research in a supportive and innovative environment at one of Europe's leading universities.