Current work position with Damian Blasi group

We are seeking an NLP/AI researcher to work at the intersection of linguistic diversity, human cognition, and foundation models.

The position is embedded in a research program that treats the world’s languages as a large-scale natural experiment to probe and extend current AI systems. A central goal is to identify how structural variation across languages—often absent from standard benchmarks—affects model behavior, generalization, and reasoning, both in humans and machines.

Research Directions

The successful candidate will contribute to and help shape projects, in the Damian Blasi research group, https://www.damianblasi.org/, in the Center for Brain and Cognition, https://www.upf.edu/web/cbc/groups such as:

  • Cross-linguistic evaluation of LLMs:

Quantifying how typological and grammatical variation impacts performance across tasks (reasoning, reference, categorization, etc.)

  • Cognition–AI interface:

Using cross-linguistic behavioral and descriptive data to probe limits of current models

What We Offer

  • A high-autonomy research environment with strong emphasis on intellectual ownership
  • Opportunity to lead first-author publications at top venues
  • Collaboration with an interdisciplinary network spanning AI, linguistics, cognitive science, and anthropology
  • Flexible structure supporting travel, fieldwork integration, and external collaborations

Selection Criteria

We are looking for candidates who combine technical depth with intellectual independence:

  • Strong background in NLP and/or machine learning, with demonstrated experience working with large language models
  • Experience in cross-linguistic NLP, multilingual modeling, or low-resource settings
  • Evidence of independent research (e.g., publications, substantial projects)
  • Strong programming skills (Python; familiarity with modern ML frameworks)
  • Excellent written and spoken English

Contract

  • Initial contract: 1 year (September 2026 – August 2027): Extension possible up to 3 years, subject to performance and funding

Application Deadline

Please, send your application (or other enquiries about the position) to . [email protected] . Include your C.V., the contact details of two academic referees, and any other relevant information/document. Please, mention that you are applying to the Postdoctoral position Blasi Research Group in the email subject. We will consider candidates until the position is filled.