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University of Potsdam

PhD and Postdoc Positions in Natural Language Processing and Computational Linguistics at University of Potsdam University of Potsdam in Germany

PhD and Postdoc Positions in Natural Language Processing and Computational Linguistics at University of Potsdam

University of Potsdam

Germany

Date not provided

Keywords

Computer Science
Cognitive Science
Natural Language Processing
Computational Linguistics
Linguistics
Cognitive Memory Systems

Description

The University of Potsdam in Germany is offering several funded PhD and postdoctoral positions in the field of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Computational Linguistics, with a focus on language learning in interaction, simulating situated use, and evaluating large language models (LLM agents) in interaction. The positions are available in the Department of Linguistics, which is known for its collaborative research activities and strong ties to the cognitive science research focus of the university. Openings include a PhD student position (100% TVL-13) with a teaching load, a PhD position (75% TVL-13) within the Collaborative Research Centre 1287 'Limits of Variability in Language', and a postdoctoral researcher position (100% TVL-13) with teaching responsibilities. The research topics cover evaluation of LLMs through conversational games, post-training of models in interaction, and mechanistic interpretation of prompt variability effects. The postdoc role involves joint supervision of students, leading publications, and supporting research project development. Applicants should hold an excellent degree in Computational Linguistics, Computer Science, Cognitive Psychology, or a related field, and possess strong programming and writing skills, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to independently carry out research projects. Postdoc candidates should also have a solid publication record and some teaching or supervision experience. While teaching in German is advantageous, it is not strictly required. Funding is provided according to the TVL-13 scale, with PhD contracts at 75% or 100% and postdoc contracts at 100%, typically for 3 to 3.5 years with possible extensions. Some positions are linked to specific research projects, while others may involve teaching in the university's popular BA and MSc programs in Computerlinguistics and Cognitive Systems. There are also opportunities for self-funded PhD students and research interns, especially for those with external funding sources such as DAAD. The application process is open until positions are filled, with evaluation of applications already underway. Interested candidates should prepare a statement of research interests, electronic copies of degree certificates, a CV with publications and code samples, and references, and send these materials to Professor David Schlangen at the University of Potsdam. For further information, candidates are encouraged to visit the lab's website and contact Professor Schlangen directly.

Funding

PhD and postdoc positions are funded at TVL-13 scale (PhD: 75% or 100%, Postdoc: 100%), with initial contracts of 3 to 3.5 years and possible extensions. Positions may include teaching load. Some positions are part of funded research projects. Self-funded PhD and research intern options may be available for candidates with external funding sources.

How to apply

Send a statement of research interests, degree certificates, CV with publications and code samples, and names of references to David Schlangen by email. Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis and positions are open until filled. Contact David Schlangen for enquiries.

Requirements

Applicants should have an excellent degree in a related field such as Computational Linguistics, Computer Science, or Cognitive Psychology. Strong programming and writing skills, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to carry a research project through are required. For postdoc positions, a developed publication record and some experience in teaching and supervision are expected. Ability to teach in German is a plus but not mandatory. Application materials include a statement of research interests, degree certificates, CV with publications and code samples, and references.

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