Lecturer, Historical Linguistics

Yale University: Faculty of Arts and Sciences: Social Science: Linguistics

Location

New Haven, CT

Open Date

Nov 14, 2025

Deadline

Nov 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time

Description

The Department of Linguistics at Yale University is looking to hire a Lecturer in Historical Linguistics, with a 3-year appointment, beginning July 1, 2026. The Lecturer will offer introductory and advanced courses and advise student research in historical linguistics/language change at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
The teaching expectation is normally 4 courses per academic year, plus advising responsibilities. The focus of the courses would be historical linguistics/language change, but the Lecturer will also offer other courses that help us meet the needs of our curriculum, which will be determined based on their areas of expertise.
The position is open as to specialization within historical linguistics. We particularly welcome applications from people whose work focuses on sound change, Indigenous or endangered languages, and/or quantitative approaches to language change.

Qualifications

The appointee must hold a Ph.D. or equivalent degree or have completed all requirements for the Ph.D. by the time this appointment starts.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit an application through Interfolio at this link: https://apply.interfolio.com/177395

Applications should include the following materials:
1. a cover letter
2. a current CV
3. a teaching statement
4. a research statement
5. three representative pieces of research
6. the names and email addresses of three referees
7. evidence of teaching and advising excellence, such as syllabi or course evaluations

Timeline: To ensure full consideration, applications should be submitted by December 20, 2025. Review of applications will begin shortly thereafter. Later applications may be considered until the position is filled.

Contact information:
• for information about the position: Claire Bowern, Search Committee Chair
• for application assistance: Julie Kinsella, Sr Administrative Assistant