Ph.D. support: Institute of Cognitive Science, Carleton University

[Ash Asudeh]

Special Ph.D. Funding
Institute of Cognitive Science
Carleton University,
Ottawa, Canada

The Institute of Cognitive Science at Carleton University invites applications for a special Ph.D. studentship on the project 'Constraint-Based Syntax and Semantics'. The project is a theoretical and computational investigation of aspects of the grammatical architecture of Lexical-Functional Grammar, including general problems in syntax and semantics, but particularly the syntax-semantics and syntax-pragmatics interfaces. One overarching concern of the project is comparison of Glue Semantics, a categorial semantics for LFG, with Transfer Semantics, an interpretive semantics for LFG. A test bed for the comparison will be computation of conventional implicature based partly on syntactic cues. A second test bed will be issues in the syntax and semantics of constructions and idioms. A third test bed will be treatment of aspects of the syntax and semantics of Persian and/or Swedish, depending on available expertise. The computational component of the project is developed in the XLE grammar development environment for LFG. 

Students with interests in other lexicalist, constraint-based theories are also encouraged to apply. 

The successful candidate will have an honours undergraduate degree (or equivalent) or a master's degree in theoretical or computational linguistics, artificial intelligence, cognitive science or computer science. Some background in theoretical or computational approaches to syntax or semantics is essential; a strong background is preferred. Native speaker competency in Persian or Swedish would also be an asset, but is not required.

The studentship offers funding for four years at $30,000 (CAD) per year. Domestic and international students are equally encouraged to apply. The start date of the studentship is September 1, 2010.

For further information please contact Dr. Ash Asudeh at the email below. 

Application forms and instructions are available from:

http://www2.carleton.ca/ics/graduate/ph-d-program/admissions/

Additional instructions:
1. If you intend to apply, please email Ash Asudeh at the address below ASAP.
2. In the research statement requested for the application package, please indicate that the application is for the special Ph.D. studentship.

Application deadline: February 15, 2010. 
[NOTE: This deadline is earlier than the general program deadline.]

Applications received after the deadline may be considered, but this is not guaranteed. 

More information about the project can be found at:

http://www.carleton.ca/~asudeh/research/projects-nserc.html

Information about the Institute of Cognitive Science:

http://www.carleton.ca/ics/

Information about Carleton University:

http://www.carleton.ca/

Contact information:
	Dr. Ash Asudeh
	email: ccs.carleton.ca !at! asudeh
	(reverse, replace !at! with appropriate sign)
	web: http://www.carleton.ca/~asudeh/