Postdoctoral Research Assistant: James Murray’s Correspondence Networks and the Oxford English Dictionary
Digitize and analyze the largest collection of James Murray’s editorial letters to revolutionize lexicographical research.
Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with a PhD in English, Linguistics, or a related field, strong archival transcription skills, and experience in digital humanities or interdisciplinary research.
Overview
This postdoctoral position at the University of Oxford supports the ERC-funded project ‘James Murray and the Correspondence Networks of the Oxford English Dictionary, 1879–1915.’ The role involves digitizing and analyzing the largest archive of James Murray’s editorial letters, held by the Bodleian Libraries. Successful candidates will collaborate closely with Dr Stephen Turton and each other to create a research platform that transforms the study of English lexicography. The project bridges literary, linguistic, and historical research, requiring expertise in archival work, digital humanities, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The position is part-time (80%) and offers a fixed-term contract for 54 months, starting January 2027.
What you'll do
- Digitize and transcribe the largest collection of James Murray’s editorial letters from the Bodleian Libraries.
- Develop a research platform to analyze the correspondence networks and their contributions to the Oxford English Dictionary.
- Collaborate with colleagues to create a systematic digital edition of Murray’s letters, enhancing access for scholars.
- Conduct linguistic and historical analysis of the correspondence to uncover insights into lexicographical practices and networks.
- Publish findings in academic journals and contribute to project deliverables, including conference presentations.
- Work closely with Dr Stephen Turton and project collaborators to integrate research outputs into broader scholarly discourse.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD/DPhil in English, Linguistics, or a related humanities or social sciences field
Language: English; proficiency at a level suitable for academic research and publication
Instruction: English
- Proven experience in handling and transcribing archival materials, particularly historical correspondence.
- Strong proficiency in digital humanities tools and methods, including text analysis and digitization techniques.
- Excellent organizational and collaborative skills for interdisciplinary teamwork.
- Familiarity with lexicographical or historical research methods.
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a part-time capacity.
- Open to all eligible candidates; no specific nationality restrictions mentioned.
- No prior experience caps or residency requirements specified.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-16 (Europe/London)
Applications must be submitted online via the University of Oxford’s recruitment portal. Applicants must upload a CV and a supporting statement detailing how they meet the selection criteria. Two referees must be provided, and applicants should indicate whether references can be contacted immediately. Applicants should specify in their cover letter whether they are applying for Research Assistant 1 or Research Assistant 2.
- CV
- Supporting statement (cover letter detailing how you meet the selection criteria)
- Details of two referees
Contact
Theresa Phillips· Recruitment Contact
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