Overview
Applications are now open for a PhD position in computational linguistics at Saarland University, under the guidance of Prof. Vera Demberg. This role is part of a project aimed at developing methods for automatically generating textual descriptions of graphs and charts from data, leveraging deep neural networks. This opportunity is significant for those interested in the intersection of language processing and data visualization.
Background & Relevance
Computational linguistics is a vital field that combines linguistics and computer science to enhance our understanding of language through computational methods. The ability to generate natural language descriptions from visual data is increasingly important in various applications, including data journalism, educational tools, and accessibility technologies. This research area not only advances theoretical knowledge but also has practical implications for improving human-computer interaction.
Key Details
- Position: PhD student in computational linguistics
- Location: Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
- Start Date: Negotiable
- Teaching Obligation: 2 hours per week
- Salary: 75% TV-L E 13 (German public payscale)
- Application Deadline: September 15, 2019
- Contact: Prof. Dr. Vera Demberg (vera@coli.uni-saarland.de)
Eligibility & Participation
Candidates should hold an MSc degree in computational linguistics, computer science, or a related field. While prior completion of the MSc is preferred, applications from those who will submit their thesis by the starting date are also welcomed. Familiarity with machine learning and natural language processing is essential.
Submission or Application Guidelines
To apply, candidates must submit the following materials via email to Prof. Demberg at vera@coli.uni-saarland.de and sek-vd@coli.uni-saarland.de:
– An academic CV
– A list of academic publications
– A research proposal detailing their interest and background related to the project
– Copies of academic degree certificates
– Two potential references
Additional Context / Real-World Relevance
Saarland University is a hub for interdisciplinary research, particularly in computational linguistics and cognitive sciences. The university hosts two Collaborative Research Centers that align with the PhD topic, focusing on information density in linguistic encoding and the foundations of comprehensible software systems. This environment promotes collaboration across various disciplines, enhancing the research experience and output.
Conclusion
This PhD position at Saarland University presents an exciting opportunity for those looking to advance their careers in computational linguistics and machine learning. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and contribute to this innovative research area, which holds promise for significant advancements in how we understand and utilize language in relation to data visualization.
Category: PhD & Postdoc Positions
Tags: computational linguistics, natural language processing, machine learning, deep learning, Saarland University, academic research, interdisciplinary research, graph generation
