Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology
Student assistant position (m/f/d) to assist with Lexical Data Curation
Deadline for applications is August 22, 2026The Department of Linguistic and Cultural Evolution (DLCE) at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology (MPI-EVA) under the directorship of Prof. Russell Gray, invites applications for student assistant positions (with or without a BA degree in hand) to assist in the curation of lexical data for the Lexibank project and beyond.About MPI-EVA
The Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology unites scientists with various backgrounds (natural sciences and humanities) whose aim is to investigate the history of humankind from an interdisciplinary perspective with the help of comparative analyses of genes, cultures, cognitive abilities, languages and social systems of past and present human populations as well as those of primates closely related to human beings. About DLCE
The Department of Linguistic and Cultural Evolution aims to answer big picture questions about human history. Our focus is on describing and explaining the major patterns of linguistic and cultural variation across the globe. We tackle these questions by developing novel language documentation methods, global linguistic and cultural databases, and analyses using evolutionary theories and computational methods. About Lexibank
Lexibank is a large repository of wordlists providing lexical information on many of the world’s languages. In order to extend the data underlying the project, specific curation procedures are required. These procedures require a mix of operations, including text editing, text correction, spreadsheet management, digitization, and the application of computer code.Main tasks:
As a student assistant in this project, you will help us in extending the Lexibank repository by adding new datasets. In this process, we will train you to acquire the necessary skills to carry out these tasks, including manual data preparation, as well as computer-assisted data refinement. The tasks will first be adjusted to the computational skill level you bring with you, and we will try to help you to further enhance them, and learn new skills. Selection Criteria:
- linguistic training and being familiar with linguistic terminology is an advantage
- readiness to improve existing skills and openness to learning new skills is a must
- computer skills, specifically in Python, are a great advantage, otherwise we expect that applicants are willing to acquire them, both through self-training and under supervision
- a good command of the English languge is a must, knowing more languages is an absolute plus
Our Offer:
- First-hand experience in our world-class research institution
- Part-time position, initially limited to 6 months (1 semester) with the possibility of extension and flexible work hours
- An inspiring, international, interdisciplinary environment with leading domain scientists at our department, in various Max Planck Institutes and universities
How to apply:
Please submit your application in English, including the following: - Cover letter (max. 2 pages), explaining research experience, research interests and reason for interest in this project, as well as the skills that you bring with you to help us in the project (language skills and computer skills)
- your CV
- copy of Bachelor’s degree certificate (if applicable)
- copy of a valid/current enrolment certificate with a German University (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung)
[NB. you may compile several PDFs into one for submission]
Please apply online (see link below). Only complete submissions via this link will be taken into consideration.
After an interview with the most suitable applicants you will be asked to complete a brief work sample.
The Max Planck Society is committed to employing individuals with disabilities and especially encourages them to apply. Additionally, we seek to increase diversity of our workforce in areas where it is underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourage women and members of underrepresented groups to apply.
For queries, please contact: dlce_info@eva.mpg.de The Max Planck Society is committed to equal opportunities and to employing individuals with disabilities and explicitly encourages them to apply.
Further information on the research agenda of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology is available on our website: www.eva.mpg.de
