Leiden University, Faculty of Humanities, Leiden University Centre for Linguistics (LUCL), is looking for a

PhD candidate (1,0 FTE) in Ancient Central Asian (Tarim Basin) Contact Linguistics

to work on

“Sogdian and Bactrian wanderers: Linguistic contacts of Sogdian and Bactrian in the Tarim Basin”

as part of the ERC-funded project The Silk Road Language Web.

In “Sogdian and Bactrian wanderers”, the linguistic influence of the Middle Iranian languages Sogdian and Bactrian in the Tarim Basin is to be investigated systematically. Both languages are not native to the Tarim Basin, but were extremely influential, as evidenced by many loanwords and names. It is known that Sogdian was spread by Sogdian traders, who also settled in different places throughout the Tarim Basin. Bactrian was the language of the Kuṣānas, but it is not well understood how exactly it reached into the Tarim Basin. While Sogdian and Bactrian influence in Tocharian is recognised, no systematic investigation exists. Although similar influence is to be expected in Khotanese, little research has been done on the topic.

Key responsibilities

• Writing a PhD thesis under the supervision of Prof. Michaël Peyrot;
• Discussing and sharing (unpublished) results with the other team members;
• Submitting research results for publication in peer-reviewed academic journals;
• Presenting papers at international conferences;
• Co-organizing scientific activities such as conferences or lectures;
• Organizing and participating in reading and discussion groups, seminars and workshops within LUCL.

Selection criteria

• An MA degree in a relevant field;
• Demonstrable affinity with historical linguistics, linguistic reconstruction, philology and contact linguistics;
• A scientific focus and creative approach, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team;
• Knowledge of one or more of the following languages: Bactrian, Gāndhārī, Khotanese, Sogdian, Tocharian;
• Good writing skills;
• Proficiency in English.
  

Our organisation
Leiden University Centre for Linguistics (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.

The Faculty of Humanities is rich in expertise in fields such as philosophy, religious studies, history, art history, literature, linguistics and area studies covering nearly every region of the world. With its staff of 995, the faculty provides 27 master’s and 25 bachelor’s programmes for over 7,000 students based at locations in Leiden and in The Hague. For more information: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/humanities.

Terms and conditions
We offer a fixed term appointment of four years (first a contract of 18 months with an extension of 30 months after positive evaluation of capabilities and compatibility) that must lead to the completion of a PhD thesis. Appointment will be under the terms of the Collective Labour Agreement of the Dutch Universities. The gross monthly salary is set on €2.770 in the first year up to €3.539 gross per month in year four, based on fulltime employment (pay scale P). The intended starting date is 1 November 2024. You are expected to work in Leiden.

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. For more information see the website.

Diversity
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.

Information
Enquiries can be made to Michaël Peyrot, e-mail m.peyrot@hum.leidenuniv.nl

Applications

Please submit your application online no later than 30 September 2024 via the blue button in our application system. Your application should include:

• A motivation letter of max. 2 A4, explaining how your expertise is relevant to carrying out the research;
• A curriculum vitae, with a list of any publications;
• A short research proposal (max. 1000 words), in which you describe how you would plan the project, which research questions you would formulate, which sources you would use, which matters you find in need of special attention, how you would tackle any existing deficiencies in your knowledge, etc.;
• A copy of your MA thesis and any other publication in English that is representative for your research qualities.

Enquiries from agencies are not appreciated.