Research Associate position University of Cambridge Visual Interactions Early Writing Systems project

Research Associate Position in the Faculty of Classics, Cambridge at the University of Cambridge, UK

About the Position

Applications are sought for a Research Associate role in the ‘Visual Interactions in Early Writing Systems’ (VIEWS) project, led by Dr. Philippa Steele. The successful applicant will undertake research on a pre-determined aspect of the project focusing on the relationships between the visibility and/or visual features of writing traditions and their vitality. This role is open to any specialization in terms of the place, period, and disciplinary approach (e.g., linguistic, archaeological, anthropological). Preference will be given to candidates working in areas underrepresented in the project’s current case studies.

The successful candidate will contribute to research excellence as part of the VIEWS team, working at a level comparable to lecturing staff. They will publish their research outcomes in a monograph or shorter form publications either during or after their employment. The Research Associate will also contribute to the project’s dissemination goals and impact activities.

Position Details

  • Position: Research Associate (Fixed Term)
  • Institution: University of Cambridge
  • Project: Visual Interactions in Early Writing Systems (VIEWS)
  • Department: Faculty of Classics
  • Location: Cambridge, UK
  • Number of Posts: 1
  • Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (18 months)
  • Start Date: 1st October 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter
  • Working Hours: Full-time
  • Salary: £37,174-£45,413 per annum
  • Reference: GE45708
  • Category: Research

Discipline / Department

  • Linguistics
  • Archaeology
  • Anthropology
  • History of Writing Systems

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • A PhD or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., Linguistics, Archaeology, Anthropology).
  • Demonstrable experience studying writing traditions within the applicant’s area of expertise.
  • Ability and willingness to develop academic interests in other writing traditions and approaches.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with writing traditions and their visibility or vitality.
  • Background in interdisciplinary research on ancient or endangered writing systems.
  • Publications in related academic fields.

Key Responsibilities

  • Undertake research on the relationship between writing systems’ visibility and their vitality.
  • Contribute to the VIEWS project by conducting high-level research, similar to that of lecturing staff.
  • Publish research findings, either as a monograph or in shorter form.
  • Participate actively in VIEWS activities, meetings, and events.
  • Play a significant role in the project’s Endangered Writing Network by planning events, working with communities, and promoting awareness of endangered writing traditions.
  • Contribute to social media activities and dissemination goals.

Application Process

How to Apply: Interested candidates should apply through the University of Cambridge’s recruitment system. Please register an account (if you have not already) and submit the following documents:

  • Cover letter (maximum 1,000 words detailing what you hope to work on and achieve during the tenure of this post).
  • CV.
  • List of publications.
  • Sample of work (e.g., a relevant academic paper).
  • Names of two referees (to submit references if invited to interview).

Important Dates

  • Application Opens: Ongoing
  • Closing Date: Midnight BST, Friday, 30th May 2025
  • Interview Date: Monday, 7th July 2025 (subject to change).

Useful Links

Contact Information:

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