Recruit
Postdoc in Language Science: Experimental and Computational Studies of Speech Perception
Position overview
Application Window
Open date: June 10, 2024
Most recent review date: Thursday, Oct 31, 2024 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.
Final date: Tuesday, Jun 10, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
Applications are invited for a two-year postdoctoral position in the laboratory of Dr. Xin Xie (https://sites.uci.edu/sclab/), in the Department of Language Science at the University of California, Irvine. The position is funded through an NIH award (NIH R01HD111936): Identifying the mechanisms of adaptive speech perception, with the Co-PI Dr. Chigusa Kurumada at the University of Rochester (https://kinderlab.bcs.rochester.edu/).
The successful candidate will work with Drs. Xie and Kurumada on experimental and computational studies of the adaptive perception of non-native accented speech. The goal of this project is to develop a comprehensive model of adaptive speech perception and to test model-generated predictions on human perceptual data.
Expected performance
• Take leading roles in research, including
o Manipulate natural audio recordings and construct speech stimuli
o Set up experiments using the in-lab and on-line testing paradigms
o Supervise graduate students and undergraduate research assistants
o Oversee various aspects of the project under the guidance of the PIs
• Build, train, and test various computational models within the team’s ASP (Adaptive Speech Perception) framework. (Necessary training will be provided)
• Publish papers in the field of speech sciences, neuroscience or psycholinguistics
• Possibility of developing individual projects and applying for external grants.
Qualifications and training
• PhD in cognitive science, neuroscience, psychology, linguistics, or a related field
• Publication record that includes first-author publications in the field of speech sciences
• Substantial training and experience in experimental and/or computational approaches to human speech perception
• Strong programming skills (e.g., R, Python)
Preferred Education, Skills, and Experiences:
• Expertise in the literature and theories of speech perception and/or production
• Proficiency with acoustic processing and analysis tools
We are an interdisciplinary team bridging two institutions. The postdoc will have access to several research, mentoring, and training opportunities from the following institutions:
• Center for Hearing Research at University of California, Irvine
• Center of Language Sciences at the University of Rochester (https://www.sas.rochester.edu/cls/).
Application
A reasonable estimate for this position is minimum $64,480. See Postdoctoral Scholar Salary Scale. Applications should include: a current curriculum vitae, a cover letter describing research interests and experience, and contact information for 2-3 references. Applications will be considered until the positions are filled.
Contact
Informal questions and inquiries may also be directed to Dr. Xie by email (xxie14@uci.edu).
Qualifications
PhD in cognitive science, neuroscience, psychology, linguistics, language science or a related field
• Publication record that includes first-author publications in the field of speech sciences
• Substantial training and experience in experimental and/or computational approaches to human speech perception
• Strong programming skills (e.g., R, Python)
Application Requirements
Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter - Cover Letter should describe research interest and experience.
Statement of Research (Optional)
Inclusive Excellence Activities Statement - Statement addressing how past and/or potential contributions to inclusive excellence will advance UCI's Commitment to Inclusive Excellence. See our guidance for writing an inclusive excellence activities statement.
Sexual Misconduct, Harassment and Discrimination Declaration Form - All applicants of academic positions at the University of California, Irvine must download, complete, sign, and upload the following form with their application: Sexual Misconduct, Harassment and Discrimination Declaration Form
Misc / Additional (Optional)
- 3 required (contact information only)
About UC Irvine
The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. 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 categories covered by the UC anti-discrimination policy.
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.