Job description:
Utrecht University is seeking a highly skilled and motivated individual to join the project of Dr. Lorena De Vita as a part-time Postdoctoral Researcher in the fields of German History and Digital Humanities. This position is available for a fixed term of 8 months at 0.4 FTE (full-time equivalent), with a desired starting date of 1 October 2023. The successful candidate will be appointed by Utrecht University. The position is funded by a grant awarded to dr. Lorena De Vita, and will be carried out at the Department of History and Art History at Utrecht University. You will work in a team aiming to digitise, transcribe, and analyse a large corpus of hand-written texts. The research project will analyse the personal diaries of a German jurist who dedicated a significant portion of his professional career to seeking reparations for Holocaust survivors. These diaries, previously inaccessible to researchers, contain meticulous daily notes. By employing and advancing handwritten-character recognition (HCR) technology, the Wording Repair project will aim to provide bottom-up insights to develop the emerging field of historical reparations studies.
As part of our team, your responsibilities will be to:
- conduct original research in the field of Digital Humanities, with a focus on the analysis and interpretation of handwritten historical documents;
- employ advanced digital tools and methodologies (Transkribus) to transcribe, analyse, and annotate historical texts, contributing to the development of new approaches in the field;
- collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to advance knowledge and understanding in the field(s) of German History and Digital Humanities;
- collect and curate relevant historical data, ensuring accuracy and quality in data management practices;
- contribute to the dissemination of research findings through academic publications, conference presentations, and other appropriate channels;
- contribute to the supervision and mentorship of junior researchers and students, providing guidance and support in their research activities.
We are looking for a candidate who has:
- a completed PhD in a relevant field, such as Digital Humanities, History, German Studies, or a related discipline;
- expertise in reading and interpreting German handwriting (this is essential for this position);
- a strong background and demonstrated expertise in the field of Digital Humanities, with a focus on the analysis and transcription of historical texts;
- proficiency in employing advanced digital tools and techniques for the analysis and visualisation of historical data;
- familiarity with transcription software and platforms, with experience using Transkribus considered a strong plus.
- strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and propose innovative solutions;
- excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams;
- demonstrated ability to work independently;
- fluency in German (required) and proficiency in English (desirable).
- A track record of scholarly publications and conference presentations in the field of Digital Humanities is desirable.
Candidates from abroad must fulfill the conditions set by the IND to work in the Netherlands.
Offer:
We offer a temporary position (0.4 FTE) for a period of 8 months. The start date is 1 October 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter. The gross salary will be €3,974 (scale 11 according to the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities) per month for a full-time employment. Salaries are supplemented with a holiday bonus of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3% per year.
About the organisation
A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. The Faculty of Humanities has around 7,000 students and 1,100 staff members. It comprises four knowledge domains: Philosophy and Religious Studies, History and Art History, Media and Culture Studies, and Languages, Literature and Communication. With its research and education in these fields, the Faculty aims to contribute to a better understanding of the Netherlands and Europe in a rapidly changing social and cultural context.
Utrecht University works with the TRIPLE model which makes it possible to recognise and value multi-, inter- and transdisciplinary teaching and research. The model also embraces job diversification and dynamic career paths. There is room to develop your own strengths and look at how you complement and strengthen the team as a whole.
Everyone deserves to feel at home at our university. We welcome employees with a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives.
To apply, please submit the following documents:
- a detailed curriculum vitae (CV) outlining academic qualifications, research experience, and relevant publications;
- a cover letter highlighting your research interests, expertise, and motivation for applying to the position;
- copies of academic transcripts and certificates;
- contact information of two references who can provide letters of recommendation, if requested.
Note that incomplete applications cannot be included in the subsequent selection procedure.
Candidates who make the shortlist will be invited for an interview. These may be conducted in person at Utrecht or online and are scheduled to take place at the end of August or the beginning of September 2023.
Additional information
For more information about this position, please contact dr. L. De Vita (Researcher and Assistant Professor) at l.devita@uu.nl