About Position/Job
The University of Pittsburgh’s Institute for Spatial History Innovation is seeking a full-time Research Associate in Digital Spatial History. This pivotal role supports the globally recognised World Historical Gazetteer (WHG) and contributes to the institute’s mission to advance spatial history and digital humanities. The successful applicant will lead the editorial process, manage spatial datasets, and engage in independent research. This is a rare opportunity to join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research team pushing the boundaries of spatial analysis and historical data.
Position/Job Details
- Position: Research Associate
- Institution: University of Pittsburgh
- Department: Institute for Spatial History Innovation (ISHI)
- Research Field: Digital Spatial History, Historical GIS, Digital Humanities
- Location: Pittsburgh, USA
- Number of Post: 1
- Job Type: Full-time (Three-year term, renewable)
- Start Date (Anticipated): August/September 2025
- Working Hours: 40 hours per week
- Salary Range: Not specified
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Spatial history
- Digital humanities
- Historical geography
- Geospatial data
- Metadata and linked data
- Phonetic search and linguistic mapping
- Archival and digitisation workflows
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in humanities, social sciences, geography, or library/information sciences
- Experience managing structured datasets and metadata
- Skilled in JSON-based formats and linked data
- Familiar with geospatial tools, GIS, and regular expressions
- Knowledge of metadata standards such as Dublin Core
Preferred Qualifications:
- Python programming for data processing
- Experience in OCR/HTR and text encoding
- Non-English language skills and IPA familiarity
- Interest in indigenous cultures and toponyms
- Familiarity with historical cartography and Vespa
- Experience with Kubernetes and Helm
- Proven grant writing experience
Key Responsibilities
- Act as Managing Editor of the World Historical Gazetteer (WHG)
- Oversee contributor support, metadata, and data publication
- Transform, validate, and manage historical datasets
- Lead phonetic toponym search and linguistic mapping initiatives
- Provide technical input on development and UX design
- Maintain an active spatial history research agenda
- Author publications, datasets, and training materials
- Supervise student researchers and collaborate on grants
Application Process
How to Apply
Submit all required materials via the University of Pittsburgh’s career portal.
Required Documents:
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Names of three referees
- Research Statement (max. 750 words) detailing your vision for linked spatial historical data
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Available now
- Deadline: 11 July 2025
- Interview Date: To be communicated to shortlisted candidates
Useful Links
- Institution Website: https://www.pitt.edu
- Job Posting: Job Description – Research Associate – Full-Time (25002750)
- Apply Now: Apply Here
