University of Chicago - Linguistics Department

Instructional Professor (Open Rank) in Linguistics and Cognitive Science

The Department of Linguistics at the University of Chicago invites applications for a position as an Instructional Professor (open rank) in Linguistics and Cognitive Science. The expected start date is September 1 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

The selected candidate will be appointed at the rank of Assistant Instructional Professor, Associate Instructional Professor, or Instructional Professor, depending on qualifications and educational background. The initial appointment is a minimum of 2 years, with longer initial terms possible depending on qualifications and initial rank. Review and progression schedule are determined by a collective bargaining agreement between the University and the Service Employees International Union.

• Teach 5–6 courses per year on the quarter system.
• Possible courses include:
  Cognitive Models, Quantitative Research Methods, Psycholinguistics, Language Processing, Language and Memory, Mind, Brain and Meaning, Contemporary Topics in Cognitive Science, and Artificial Intelligence.
• Provide service duties such as advising undergraduate theses, teaching independent studies, or other program‑specific duties.
• Engage in regular professional development.

Salary Range (academic year 2026‑2027)

• Assistant Instructional Professor: $75,676 – $81,729
• Associate Instructional Professor: $81,730 – $88,459
• Instructional Professor: $88,460 – $98,000

The base pay range is for a nine‑month academic appointment paid over twelve months. The position also includes a relocation allowance for qualifying expenses. The position is benefits‑eligible and includes health, retirement, and paid time off. For details, see the Benefits Guidebook.

The successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. in Linguistics, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, or a related field, completed prior to the start of the appointment, and have experience teaching at the university or post‑secondary level. We especially seek applicants with experience teaching and/or the ability to teach computational cognitive modeling of language and other cognitive processes.

Applicants must upload the following materials to the University of Chicago’s recruitment website at by 10:59 PM Central Time / 11:59 PM Eastern Time on January 5 2026
:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover letter
• Teaching statement
• Sample syllabi
• Contact information for three references

Applicants may be asked to provide additional materials following the initial review of applications. Questions may be directed to Chris Kennedy at ck
. The terms and conditions of employment for this position are covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the University and the Service Employees International Union. This position is contingent upon budgetary approval.

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University’s Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773‑834‑3988 or email equal opportunity with their request.

Location: 1115

E. 58th Street, Chicago, IL 60637, United States