Senior Researcher in Linguistics

For over 85 years, the Fryske Akademy has been conducting scientific research on the Frisian language, multilingual society, and regional history of Friesland. Through its multidisciplinary research, the Fryske Akademy contributes innovative insights to international academic debates, strengthens the academic climate in Leeuwarden and Friesland, and generates inspiring fundamental and applied knowledge for and about Frisian society. The Mercator European Research Centre on Multilingualism and Language Learning has been part of the Fryske Akademy since 1987. Mercator conducts comparative and applied research across Europe on multilingual education, language policy, and language vitality, linking these topics to social issues in Friesland. In this way, the Fryske Akademy ensures high-quality research with societal impact, demonstrating a strong commitment to Frisia and its people. The Fryske Akademy is well embedded in the region and affiliated with the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW).

Position: Senior Researcher in Linguistics
38 hours per week / 1 FTE

Are you an experienced researcher eager to contribute to high-quality research?
Can you integrate the latest scientific insights and methodologies into our research agenda? Do you possess a broad, interdisciplinary perspective and the ability to provide strategic direction to our scientific programme? Are you motivated by complex academic challenges and committed to elevating our research to a higher level? If so, we invite you to apply.

Candidate Profile
We seek a senior linguistics researcher who will make a substantial contribution to our research agenda. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to foster interdisciplinary research, mentor colleagues, and shape the direction of our research programme. Furthermore, applicants should be able to engage with the Frisian linguistic context and situate it within an international comparative framework.

Key Responsibilities:

• The appointed researcher will conduct independent and collaborative research in linguistics that aligns with our research agenda.
• Responsibilities will include initiating and securing funding for research projects.
• In the coming years, the successful candidate will play a pivotal role as one of the programme coordinators, overseeing and structuring scientific research within our institute.
• A key aspect of the role is ensuring the effective organisation of research processes and enhancing the integration of various projects and disciplines.
• The candidate is expected to collaborate closely with internal and external partners, connecting theoretical and methodological research questions to societal needs while leveraging opportunities within the Frisian academic and linguistic landscape.
• Moreover, the researcher will lead the establishment of regional, national, and international collaborations and funding initiatives.

Primary Duties:

• Conducting original scientific research on the Frisian language and multilingualism in Friesland.
• Developing research proposals and securing external funding.
• Leading research projects and contributing to the formulation of plans within the research agenda.
• Monitoring, evaluating, and refining the research agenda.
• Assessing projects and research initiatives, ensuring alignment with national and international research initiatives.
• Mentoring and supporting fellow researchers.
• Collaborating with other programme coordinators to shape institutional research strategies.

Required Qualifications:

• A PhD, obtained at least five years ago.
• Demonstrable experience in initiating, securing funding for, publishing, and conducting research projects.
• Willingness to engage with and contribute to the research agenda of the Fryske Akademy.
• Experience in mentoring and leading colleagues is desirable.
• A well-established academic network and strong collaboration skills.
• Analytical, independent, proactive, and innovative mindset.
• Excellent command of both Dutch and English, both spoken and written. A Frisian language course will be provided if the candidate does not yet speak Frisian.

What We Offer:

• A stimulating and independent position, with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by developing and leading research initiatives.
• Flexible working arrangements, including options for remote work.
• An initial one-year contract, with the prospect of a permanent appointment upon positive evaluation.
• Employment under the UFO profile Researcher 2 or Researcher 1, depending on experience and qualifications (ref. Salary Scales).
• Competitive secondary employment benefits.
• A supportive and inclusive working environment where professional development and individual contribution are highly valued.

About the Fryske Akademy
The Fryske Akademy is a research institute specialising in the study of the Frisian linguistic and cultural landscape, as well as European minority languages (through its Mercator branch). The Akademy is the leading centre for Frisian studies in the Netherlands and plays a crucial role in minority language research within Europe. Embedded in national and international research infrastructures, the Akademy is affiliated with the KNAW and collaborates closely with KNAW institutes and universities. As a relatively small institution with an extensive network and significant ambitions, the Akademy offers an environment where researchers enjoy considerable academic freedom. We operate within a flat organisational structure, where researchers work independently and collaboratively with enthusiasm and dedication. Collegial cooperation and space for initiative are fundamental to our working culture.

Programme Coordinators
To ensure the effective execution of our scientific programme, we have established the role of programme coordinator. Senior researchers are expected to assume this role on a rotational basis per policy period, working alongside a fellow programme coordinator to oversee and direct the research agenda. This responsibility is undertaken in addition to core research duties, which will continue to account for 50% of the researcher's allocated time.

Further Information
For additional details about this position, please contact Nelleke IJssennagger-van der Pluijm via email at nijssennagger@fryske-akademy.nl or by phone at +31 (0) 58 213 14 14 (reception).

Application Procedure
Interested candidates are invited to submit their cover letter and CV before 14 April 2025 to Mr Anne Mulder, HR Department, quoting reference "Linguistics-2025". Interviews will be conducted on 29 April.