Department of Philosophy/Linguistics - Philosophy of Language/Computational 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.

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.

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

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

• 3-5 letters of reference required

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

To implement this process, UC Davis requires all applicants for any open search to complete, sign, and upload the form entitled, "Authorization to Release Information" into UC RECRUIT as part of their application. If an applicant does not include the signed authorization with the application materials, the application will be considered incomplete, and as with any incomplete application, will not receive further consideration.

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco-free campus.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UC Davis positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check.

The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and students. Our excellence in research, teaching, and service are embodied by members of our academic community who share our commitment to these values. A variety of resources and programs are available to academics, staff, and students that reflect the core values reflected in our strategic plan: "To Boldly Go," our Principles of Community, the Office of Academic Affairs' Mission Statement, and the UC Board of Regents Policy 4400.

UC Davis is also a national leader in inclusive practice. There are numerous links available on the About Us webpage where you can learn more about our administration, campus rankings, locations, campus safety, sustainability, visiting UC Davis and UC Davis Health.

The university is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the world for campus sustainability practices by the UI Green Metric World University Rankings. UC Davis is focused on achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and repeatedly shown its commitment to preserving a healthy and sustainable environment for generations to come.

The University of California and UC Davis are committed to offering a wide variety of benefits for employees. The University of California Employee benefits and UC Davis New Employee benefits webpages have additional information.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.