Modelling context for the analysis of language variation and change

Universität des Saarlandes (Germany)

The project will use computational approaches to mode linguistic and extra-linguistic context for the analysis of language variation and change. Context has a major impact on how we process language. However, the notion of context is very broad ranging from broadly conceived pragmatic conditions, i.e. the extra-linguistic context (e.g. socio-cultural factors, genres, time), to the relationship among linguistic elements that can substitute for each other in a given context, i.e. the paradigmatic context, up to the local linguistic context of linguistic elements, i.e. the syntagmatic context. While studies on language variation and change do encompass the notion of context, the coverage of contextual factors is often relatively limited. This project will apply and further develop computational modeling techniques to integrate contextual factors among the types of context described above to arrive at more comprehensive accounts of effects of contextual factors on language variation and change.

Further information about the project, the position and how to apply is available here.

Applicants are requested to enclose the following documents in English with their application as a single PDF file:

1. A curriculum vitae, including any publications (max. 10 pages);

2. A cover statement outlining the applicant’s ambitions for Modeling context for the analysis of language variation and change and the wider CASCADE network (max. 2 pages);

3. A single-authored writing sample (any length).

Further information can also be obtained by contacting the supervisor, PD Dr. Stefania Degaetano-Ortlieb (s.degaetano@mx.uni-saarland.de).