PhD Positions for the “Spatial Communication and Ageing Across Languages (SCALA)” project

Institute for Cognitive Sciences and Technologies (ISTC)

Organisation/Company: CNR Department Institute for Cognitive Sciences and Technologies (ISTC)

Research Field: Language sciences » Linguistics, Psychological sciences » Cognitive science

Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)

Positions: PhD Positions

Country: Italy

Application Deadline: 21 Jan 2025 - 23:59 (Europe/Rome)

Type of Contract: Temporary

Job Status: Full-time

Offer Starting Date: 1 Mar 2025

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe - MSCA

Reference Number: Marie Curie Grant Agreement Number 101169131

Offer Description

***The deadline for applying to the position is extended until January 21, 2025, the date of the interview is set for January 28, 2025 at 2:00 p.m***

Applications must be received according to the instructions and methods detailed in the Selection Notice published on the CNR website www.urp.cnr.it.

Errata corrige: reference letters (maximum two) may be sent by candidates or referees directly to the following address: protocollo.roma@istc.cnr.it.

The Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies of CNR, Rome, Italy, is seeking to fill two positions for Doctoral Research Associates (EU-Forscher*in, salary level E 13 TV-L, 100%, 3 years fixed term) for the EU-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) doctoral network “Spatial Communication and Ageing Across Languages (SCALA)”.

The focus of the SCALA project is to understand how spatial communication changes in typical and atypical ageing across spatial scales, and how technology may be harnessed to support spatial communication in the context of an increasingly ageing European population.

PhD Topic 1 / DC2: “Spatial communication in Sign Languages in Typical Ageing”

This project will consider spatial communication in sign languages across the lifespan (up to old age), using a combination of linguistic and experimental approaches. Data will be collected on a range of linguistic and non-linguistic measures to assess predictors of spatial language performance in older adults in sign languages.

The fellow will benefit from training in theories of sign language development, sign language video analysis, and advanced statistical analysis.

PhD Topic 2 / DC3: “Understanding the relative importance of pointing, eye gaze and language in object reference in spoken and sign languages in older adults”

This project will examine the role of gesture, gaze, and speech in directing attention to objects, focusing on comparing hearing and deaf individuals. The fellow will receive training in theories of sign language development and statistical analysis.

The position is open to candidates (of any nationality) who meet the requirements for Doctoral Candidates (DC) funded by MSCA. An equal opportunities policy will be applied.

Minimum Requirements

- Funded researchers must be Doctoral Candidates (DC), i.e., not in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment.

- Researchers are required to undertake transnational mobility.

- Excellent knowledge of written English.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Basic knowledge of a Sign Language;
2. Experience in transcribing, coding, and analyzing data related to gestures and/or Sign Language;
3. Experience in using video transcription software (e.g., ELAN);
4. Experience in statistical analysis and in using dedicated software (e.g., R).

Additional Information

By joining the EU-UKRI-funded doctoral network SCALA, you will join an interdisciplinary and intersectoral training network involving universities, companies, and several associated partners.

Selection Process

Candidates must send the following documents:

1. Cover letter and Curriculum Vitae (CV);
2. Degree Certificate (Master) in Italian or English;
3. Certificate of exams taken during the degree course;
4. One or two reference letters;
5. A copy of a valid identification document.

The selection will be based on qualifications and an interview.

Duration and Amount of the Grant

Each research grant will last 3 years. The recruited DC will receive a grant to cover living, travel, and installation allowances. The annual gross amount is euro 39,739.20 as Living Allowance, plus additional allowances if applicable.

Work Location(s)

Institute for Cognitive Sciences and Technologies (ISTC), Rome, Italy.