Fully Funded PhD at University of Tübingen

About the Programme

The University of Tübingen, Faculty of Science, Institute for Archaeological Sciences (Palaeoanthropology Section) is offering a fully funded PhD researcher position in primate communication and language evolution. Starting in November 2025, this exciting project explores how great apes use gestures, vocalisations and facial expressions to interact socially and how these insights help us understand the origins of human language. The research is part of the Collaborative Research Centre “Common Ground” (CRC1718), funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). The successful candidate will join a dynamic, international team and work closely with experts in primatology, linguistics and cognitive science. This position offers excellent opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, advanced training in behavioural data analysis and probabilistic modelling, and fieldwork in challenging but rewarding settings.

Programme Details

Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
Institution: University of Tübingen
Department/Faculty: Faculty of Science, Institute for Archaeological Sciences (Palaeoanthropology Section)
Supervisors: Dr Marlen Fröhlich, Prof Dr Michael Franke, Prof Dr Manuel Bohn
Location: Tübingen, Germany
Start Date (Anticipated): November 2025
Duration: Fixed-term until June 2029
Funding: Fully funded, 75% of full-time E13 TV-L salary scale
Working Hours: 75% of a full-time contract
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Psychology, Evolutionary Anthropology, Linguistics, Cognitive Science or related fields

Research Focus/Area

Primate communication
Language evolution
Multimodal signalling in great apes
Social and contextual influences on communication

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Psychology, Evolutionary Anthropology, Linguistics, Cognitive Science, or a closely related discipline
Experience in collecting and analysing behavioural data

Preferred Qualifications:

Fieldwork experience in animal communication under physically demanding conditions
Interest or basic knowledge in probabilistic or statistical modelling
Strong academic record
Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse, international team
Willingness to learn advanced analytical methods

Key Features of the Programme

International and interdisciplinary research environment
Opportunities to attend conferences and access travel funding
Strong institutional support and access to state-of-the-art resources
Professional development in behavioural research and modelling techniques
Close collaboration with leading researchers in primatology and cognitive science

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit your application via email to Ursula Münster (administrative coordinator): ursula.muenster@uni-tuebingen.de. Project-related queries can also be directed to this address.