Do you enjoy working in an interdisciplinary research environment? Are you interested in applying multiple methods to advance research in linguistics and cognitive science? If you imagine yourself in a PhD position at the crossroads of lab-based experimental linguistics and linguistic fieldwork, then we welcome your application!

About the Company

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is dedicated to innovative research and teaching across a wide range of disciplines, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

The Role

In this project, you will work in a small international team of (psycho)linguists and cognitive scientists on the evolution and processing of negation in language. Specifically, we investigate why most languages prefer to express the negator (‘not’) early rather than late in the utterance. You will learn to use multiple methods, including artificial language learning and EEG, collecting data from different language communities, including indigenous language speakers in Ecuador.

Responsibilities

• Submit a PhD thesis within the appointment period.
• Present intermediate research results at workshops and conferences.
• Participate in the Research School and Faculty of Humanities PhD training programmes.
• (Co-)teach courses at BA-level in the second and third year of the appointment (maximum 0.2 FTE per year).
• Conduct field-based experiments in Ecuador.
• Organise knowledge dissemination activities.
• Participate in meetings and training sessions of the project research group.

Requirements

• A completed Master's degree in Linguistics, Cognitive Science, Psychology, or a related field.
• Excellent research and academic English skills demonstrated by a Master's thesis.
• Strong interest in fieldwork/field-based experimental methods.
• Conversational proficiency in Spanish.
• A strong cooperative attitude and willingness to engage in collaborative research.

Please note that if you already hold a doctorate/PhD or are working towards obtaining a similar degree elsewhere, you will not be admitted to a doctoral programme at the UvA.

Nice to Have

• Previous experience with experimental methods (artificial language learning, behavioural psycholinguistics, EEG).

What We Offer

• A temporary employment contract for 48 months, starting with 16 months and extendable for 32 months based on performance.
• A gross monthly salary ranging from €3,204 in the first year to €4,051 in the last year (scale P), excluding holiday allowance (8%) and year-end bonus (8.3%).
• PhD candidates receive a tuition fee waiver.
• Free access to courses offered by the Graduate School of Humanities and the Dutch National Research Schools.
• Training in (field-based) EEG methods by the research team.
• Opportunities for further professional development and education.
• An inspiring academic and international work environment in the heart of Amsterdam.
• An enthusiastic and professional academic team.

Application Process

If you recognize yourself in the profile and are interested in the position, we look forward to receiving your application. Your application should include the following information:

• A cover letter and full academic CV.
• A list of all Master-level modules you have taken, with an official transcript of grades.
• A writing sample (preferably your MA thesis).
• The names and email addresses of two references, including your advisor, who may be approached by the selection committee.

The vacancy closes on 12 October 2026. The first round of interviews will take place on 26-27 October 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.