Postdoctoral researcher Syntax of interactional linguistics

Postdoctoral researcher Syntax of interactional linguistics.

Leiden University was founded in 1575 and is one of Europe’s leading international research universities.

The Leiden University Centre for Linguistics is looking for a postdoctoral researcher in the project ‘Interactional linguistics from periphery to core’, funded by an Ammodo Award for Fundamental Science awarded to Dr. Jenneke van der Wal. The start of the position is flexible, earliest in August 2026.

The project intends to explore what a model of grammar should look like in order to explain how the knowledge of the speaker and listener are expressed in morphosyntax. In particular, the aim of the postdoc’s work is to propose a way to incorporate evidentiality, egophoricity, and mirativity into a formal theory of grammar.

• develop a formal analysis of evidentiality, egophoricity and/or mirativity
• present work at (international) conferences
• (co-)author at least three scientific publications on the basis of their project work for international peer‑review journals

In addition, they may optionally:

• Contribute to courses related to the project
• Be involved in outreach activities

• PhD in linguistics
• Experience in comparative syntax beyond European languages
• Interest in evidentiality, egophoricity and mirativity
• Sharp analytical skills and ability to come up with creative solutions
• Independence, resourcefulness and readiness to solve problems
• Capacity to collaborate with team members of the MapLE project

The postdoctoral researcher will be part of an active international research community, with regular seminars, collaborations, and opportunities to interact with researchers across a range of areas in linguistics at the Leiden University Centre for Linguistics (LUCL) and in the Netherlands.

LUCL is one of seven Institutes that falls under the Faculty of Humanities. With over 120 linguists working at the Institute, it is a rich research environment that prides itself on fostering scientific excellence. LUCL has a longstanding tradition in the study of the world’s languages and features unique linguistic expertise. Current theoretical insights are combined with modern experimental methods in its research profile area ‘Language Diversity in the World’.

Researchers from our six umbrella research groups are experts in their respective fields but equally find innovative ways of collaborating with other fields and disciplines.

We offer a 1.0 FTE position for three years, initially for one year (with a 2‑month probation period), with extension after a positive evaluation. The start of the position is flexible, earliest in August 2026.

Salary range from €4 728.– to €4 901.– gross per month (pay scale 11.0–11.1), based on fulltime employment, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities and commensurate with qualifications and experience. Depending on qualifications, you may start at the appropriate step in scale 10 until you fully meet the requirements for scale 11 as specified by the Faculty of Humanities.

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8 %) and end‑of‑year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development.

Fostering an inclusive community is a central element of the values and vision of Leiden University. Leiden University is committed to becoming an inclusive community which enables all students and staff to feel valued and respected and to develop their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High quality teaching and research is inclusive.

For further information about the project, please contact:

For practical questions regarding the application procedure:

Applicants are invited to submit the following materials by 28 June 2026:

• Curriculum Vitae and a list of publications.
• A cover letter explaining your motivation, background and qualifications for the position (max. 2 pages)
• Names, positions, and email addresses of two referees (reference letters are not required at this stage).

Candidates will be notified by 6 July for interviews on the 10th of July.

Applications should be submitted through the university’s application portal.

Enquiries from recruitment agencies are not appreciated.