Postdoctoral Researcher in Cross-Cultural Psycho-/Neurolinguistics

The NCCR Evolving Language (www.evolvinglanguage.ch)  invites applications for a postdoctoral position in cross-cultural research on language processing and its relationship with other aspects of cognition, with a specific focus on syntax and event cognition.

The NCCR is a Swiss National Center of Competence in Research with the goal of creating a new discipline, Evolutionary Language Science, that targets the origins and future of language. The center consists of scientists from traditionally separated academic domains, which allows us to harvest the diverse expertise from the humanities, social sciences, computational sciences, natural sciences and medicine towards a broadscale collaboration.

In collaboration with a team from the NCCR Work Package “Events” and under the supervision of Professor Balthasar Bickel, the postdoc will lead and develop a series of studies using chiefly experimental methods to investigate language processing and planning and the wider cognitive background of this in a diverse set of languages, drawing chiefly on the NCCR’s existing network of collaborations worldwide (NCCR research facilities).

Successful candidates will be thoroughly familiar with experimental methods and statistical data analysis in language science. They are trained in psycholinguistics, neurolinguistics, and/or linguistics and are keen on engaging with evolutionary questions. Experience with cross-cultural fieldwork is an additional strong asset.

The NCCR Evolving Language places great emphasis on teamwork and multidisciplinary perspectives. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential. Excellent oral and written communication in English is required.

What we offer

This is an 80% FTE position, which includes 20% teaching. The position is offered as a one-year contract, with a potential extension by agreement to up to four years total.

UZH offers excellent opportunities and strong support for career development. Salaries are internationally competitive: Salary ranges, guidelines for employees in SNSF-funded projects (PDF).

Place of work

Place of work is Zurich, Switzerland, but the successful candidate is expected to conduct experiments in various places across the world.

Start of employment

As soon as possible.

Further information

Review of applications will start September 10, 2026, and the position remains open until filled. To apply, please submit the following documents as a single PDF (in English):

• a cover letter (1.5 pages max, describing your previous experience, your research interests as part of the NCCR program, your motivation to apply for the present position)
• a CV, including a publication list
• contact information (name, position, and e-mail address) of two references
• a maximum of two writing samples / publications

APPLY HERE

For further information, please contact Lena Zipp Email