Postdoctoral Researcher in Afrikaans Derivational Morphology at KU Leuven KU Leuven in Belgium

KU Leuven’s research group Formal and Computational Linguistics (ComForT) and the Center for Research in Syntax, Semantics, and Phonology (CRISSP) invite applications for a postdoctoral researcher in formal linguistics, focusing on Afrikaans derivational morphology. The successful candidate will join the CatCAD project, which investigates the decomposition of nouns and verbs into grammatical primitives, with a comparative approach to Afrikaans and Dutch. The project aims to advance theoretical understanding of nominal and verbal categorization, drawing on typological and formal research, and examining language contact, multilingualism, and morphological variation.

The CatCAD team includes leading scholars such as Prof. dr. Jeroen Van Craenenbroeck, Theresa Biberauer (Cambridge/Stellenbosch), Cora Cavirani-Pots (Cambridge), and Fien Croux (PhD student). The postdoctoral researcher will focus primarily on Afrikaans, while the PhD student will concentrate on Dutch. The position offers a stimulating academic environment that encourages intellectual creativity, independence, and collaboration, with strong support for research activities and professional development.

This is a two-year postdoctoral position at 80% employment, based in Leuven with frequent activities in Brussels. Remuneration follows the official Belgian scales for academic personnel and bursaries, providing internationally competitive pay. Depending on the candidate’s profile, the contract may be as a Postdoctoral scholarship holder in international mobility or as a Research associate. The starting date is flexible, and the researcher must reside in Belgium during the appointment.

Applicants should hold a PhD in Linguistics, demonstrate native or near-native fluency in Afrikaans, and possess excellent analytical and research skills. Fluency in English, a strong publication record, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are essential. The role requires a keen interest in advanced linguistic theorizing and the ability to relate complex language data to theoretical frameworks.

KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, fostering a respectful and socially safe environment for all researchers. For accessibility or support questions, assistance is available via the provided contact email.

To apply, submit a motivation letter, CV, and a sample of academic writing through the KU Leuven jobsite. For further details, consult the project description and contact Prof. dr. Jeroen Van Craenenbroeck at [email protected].