Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Linguistics

University of California, Davis

Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Linguistics

The Departments of Philosophy and Linguistics at the University of California, Davis invite applications for a joint tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor, specializing in research questions at the intersection of philosophy of language and theoretical/computational linguistics. A successful candidate is expected to be active in both departments. The anticipated start date is July 1, 2027.

We seek a scholar whose research and teaching bridge philosophy, linguistics, and modern computational methods, including formal (symbolic) models, neural language models, and other formal or computational systems. We welcome candidates working on areas such as: semantics and pragmatics, morphology and syntax of natural languages, philosophy of linguistics, language evolution and change, AI interpretability or alignment, and computational models of communication. We are especially interested in candidates whose work addresses how meaning, reasoning, linguistic structure, or grammar is represented and processed in generative AI systems.

The successful candidate will hold a joint appointment in the Department of Philosophy and the Department of Linguistics and will be expected to develop a robust, externally fundable research program alongside a strong record of teaching and mentorship at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The successful candidate will contribute to core curricula in both departments, and the Cognitive Science program. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Philosophy, Linguistics, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, or a closely related field by the start of the appointment. Candidates should demonstrate strong potential for excellence in research and teaching at the intersection of philosophy, linguistics, and computational/AI methods.

Applicants should submit: curriculum vitae, a cover letter that clearly states reasons for the candidate’s interest in the position, qualifications, and a summary of academic trajectory; statements of research and teaching interests, official graduate transcripts, one writing sample (publication, submitted manuscript, or dissertation chapter), and three letters of recommendation through the online application system found at: https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07874.

This recruitment is conducted at the Assistant rank. The resulting hire will be at the Assistant rank, regardless of the proposed appointee’s qualifications. Appointment level and salary are commensurate with experience. A reasonable estimate for this position is $117,000 to $143,700. The position will remain open until filled. Applications received by November 15, 2026 will receive full initial consideration. The University of California, Davis, is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer with a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of diversity among its faculty and staff.