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(a)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).