Postdoctoral Researcher(s)

University of Reading - Evolution Group, School of Biological Sciences

Start date: as soon as possible

Closing date: 27 June 2012

Reference number: RS12034

Post type: full-time, fixed-term

Pay grade: 6

Payscale: £27,578 to £30,122 per annum

Salary notes: The posts are fixed term for two years

We seek to appoint two energetic and enthusiastic Postdoctoral Researchers to join a world leading group of evolutionary biologists, linguists and phylogenetic researchers to study problems in the evolution of languages at the micro (within-population) and macro-evolutionary scales. 

Our approach draws on ideas and concepts from linguistcs, evolution, fitness, phylogenetics and statistical modelling.   Applicants should have an interest in language as a culturally transmitted replicator (sensu Pagel, 2009, Nat. Reviews Genetics) and a genuine desire to use data to investigate models that describe how languages evolve.  Although not essential requirements, preference will be given to candidates with a background in quantitative approaches to studying evolution or those with a facility with computers and computer modelling.  Positions are for two years in the first instance with a possibility of extension to up to two more.  The main responsibilities are to gather and analyse linguistic data, conduct statistical analyses, write research papers and make presentations at conferences. 

You will have:

A PhD in a relevant discipline

• The ability to conduct statistical analyses
• Some facility with computers
• Some experience with research, writing research papers, giving conference presentations
• Flexibilty, tolerance for ambiguity in data, creative, imaginative, self-motivated, looking for a career in research

The position provides excellent training for a career in research.

Informal contact details

Contact name: Mark Pagel          phone: +44 (0)118 378 8900    email: m.pagel@reading.ac.uk

Formal contact details

To formally apply please visit www.reading.ac.uk/Jobs or contact Human Resources, University of Reading, Whiteknights, PO Box 217, Reading RG6 6AH. Telephone +44(0)118 378 6771 (voicemail).