The Department of Language and Culture at UiT The Arctic University of Norway invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position in Multilingualism, Neurocognition and Language Learning. This three-year, full-time position is affiliated with the NOBELL project (Neurocognitive Outcomes of Bilingualism and Effects on Language Learning), funded by the Research Council of Norway from January 2026 to December 2029. The anticipated start date is August 2026, with flexibility for negotiation.

The NOBELL project aims to investigate how bilingual experience-induced neurocognitive adaptations influence subsequent language learning. The research will focus on identifying which aspects of bilingual experience (such as frequency and intensity of language engagement, and duration) affect cognitive processes and neural substrates associated with language learning, including attentional control, working memory, and neural connectivity. The project will conduct a large-scale longitudinal study with Norwegian-English bilingual adults, assessing their language background, exposure, and neurocognitive outcomes using rs-EEG and behavioral tasks. Participants will undergo Spanish language training via an app-based platform, with proficiency assessed post-training. The study seeks to uncover mechanistic links between bilingual experience, neurocognitive adaptations, and language learning outcomes.

The successful candidate will play a key role in project design, data collection, analysis, and dissemination of results. The position is closely linked to the Center for Language, Brain and Learning (C-LaBL) and involves collaboration with researchers at the University of Lancaster and University of Groningen. The Department of Language and Culture is renowned for its research in linguistics, cognitive linguistics, sociolinguistics, and multilingualism, and offers a vibrant academic environment with opportunities for career development and involvement in interdisciplinary research groups.

Applicants must hold a PhD in cognitive science, cognitive neuroscience, psychology, language sciences, or a related field. Those nearing completion of their PhD may apply if they provide relevant documentation. Required qualifications include experience with experimental design, data collection, and analysis, as well as excellent English proficiency. Desired skills include experience with EEG and/or fMRI, advanced statistical modelling, prior research with multilingual populations, and competence in Spanish. Candidates should demonstrate motivation, research potential, collaboration skills, and a commitment to a positive working environment.

The position offers a competitive salary according to the Norwegian State salary scale, membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, and access to the National Insurance Scheme with health care services. UiT is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds. The application process is managed via Jobbnorge, and candidates must submit all required documents by the deadline of 15 February 2026.

For further information, contact Professor Vincent DeLuca ([email protected]) or Head of Department Cathrine Theodorsen ([email protected]). More details about working and living in Norway are available at uit.no/staffmobility. Apply online at Jobbnorge.