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.

The University of Copenhagen is inviting applications for a 30-month postdoctoral position in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and the cultural alignment of Large Language Models (LLMs) at the Centre for Language Technology, Department of Nordic Studies and Linguistics. This opportunity is part of the CAALLM Consortium, a pioneering Nordic project focused on the linguistic and cultural adaptation of LLMs, and involves collaboration with research groups across Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Latvia, and the Faroe Islands. The successful candidate will also contribute to the Danish AI initiative, Danish Foundation Models, and work closely with Alexandra Institutet and leading Danish universities. The research will center on the development and assessment of datasets for evaluating and adjusting the proficiency of LLMs in reflecting common ground and values, particularly for the Danish language. The position also emphasizes the design and application of explainable and interpretable AI methods to identify and mitigate cultural biases in language models. The Centre for Language Technology (CST) at UCPH is internationally recognized for its research in NLP, computational linguistics, digital humanities, and language technology for Danish, and offers a vibrant, collaborative environment with strong ties to international research projects and conferences. Applicants should hold a PhD in computational linguistics, NLP, or a related field, with a strong publication record in top conferences such as ACL, EMNLP, COLING, or LREC. Experience in independent research, research collaborations, and research management is required. While proficiency in Danish and knowledge of Nordic culture are advantageous, they are not mandatory. The position does not require teaching, but documented teaching experience can be included in the application. The postdoc is fully funded for 30 months, with a starting salary of DKK 39,200 (approx. EUR 5,200) per month plus an 18.07% pension contribution. International researchers may be eligible for a pension exemption, and additional salary supplements can be negotiated. The application deadline is March 10, 2026, and the expected start date is July 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. To apply, candidates must submit their application online, including a motivation letter, CV, documentation of qualifications, a complete publication list, up to three selected publications, and a research plan. For further information, contact Ali Basirat ([email protected]) or Bolette Sandford Pedersen ([email protected]). The University of Copenhagen is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.