FNS PhD Student: The University of Lausanne is inviting applications for a doctoral position in Digital Humanities and Computational Semiotic Studies. This position focuses on innovative research around the computational study of Charles S. Peirce’s manuscripts using advanced digital methods.
Designation
FNS PhD Student
Research Area
Digital Humanities and Computational Semiotic Studies
Location
Lausanne-Dorigny, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s degree in Computer Science for the Humanities or equivalent, in a relevant discipline such as Digital Humanities, Computational Linguistics, or Computational Studies of Semiotics, obtained upon entering the position.
- Excellent command of English (B2-C1) or native proficiency.
- Strong motivation to develop a thesis project integrating digital methods: OCR, HTR, NLP, knowledge graphs, and data visualization applied to the analysis of Charles S. Peirce’s works.
- Ability to conduct inter- and multidisciplinary research in an international environment, combining technical rigor and theoretical reflection.
Job Description
The selected candidate will:
- Conduct digital transcription of Peirce’s manuscripts using OCR and handwritten text recognition techniques, collaborating with specialized platforms like Transkribus and eScriptorium.
- Implement Natural Language Processing tools and linguistic models to analyze transcribed texts, identify stylistic and semantic patterns, and track the evolution of Peircean thought.
- Contribute to building a structured knowledge graph, integrating transcribed and annotated data, using standards such as TEI-XML and culturally relevant ontologies.
- Develop interactive visualization tools to explore relationships between texts, diagrams, and semiotic concepts.
- Design interfaces and APIs for accessing and disseminating research outcomes.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following application materials in PDF or Word format:
- A cover letter outlining skills and proposals for leading the doctoral project.
- A detailed and up-to-date Curriculum Vitae.
- A copy of university diplomas.
- A list of research work (publications, projects, presentations).
- An electronic version of the master’s thesis.
- Contact information for two academic references (Name, First Name, Institution, Email).
All applications must be submitted through the University of Lausanne’s official website.
Last Date for Application
May 19, 2025
For any further information, please contact Davide Picca at davide.picca@unil.ch.
Encourage all interested candidates to take this opportunity to contribute to a significant research field and enhance their academic careers!
