Postdoctoral Researcher

The ERC Project (Consolidator Grant) “DERIVATE: “Retelling and Repetition: Towards a Literary History of Derivation” inquires into the practice of retelling as a springboard for conceptualising literary history in terms of a history of derivations. Starting from the premise that retelling is a transhistorical concept, the project sheds new light on the processes of reception that find their expression in the current interest in and relevance of premodern material as witnessed by the surge of retellings in contemporary English literature. The project triangulates (classical) reception studies, medieval literary studies as well as literary theory, especially postmodernist theory, and scrutinizes the practice of retelling premodern (ancient and medieval) texts in contemporary English literature.

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher specialising in English Literature and/or the Sociology of Literature as demonstrated by an excellent dissertation. Expertise in another philology and comparative literature is desirable, as well as an interest in questions of theory (literary theory; narratology; reception studies; adaptation studies). The successful candidate is expected to conduct a research project that focuses on retelling(s) and literary practice in the 21st century, including topics such as authorship, the canon and the status of literary works, (un)originality, and ethical and legal issues (e.g. in view of developments in A.I.).

The Department of English at the University of Freiburg offers an intellectually stimulating and vibrant environment for research and scholarly exchange. We are looking for a candidate with great interpersonal skills who will engage actively in the discussions with the other members of the team, and who is excited by the prospect of diachronic and comparative work. The postdoctoral researcher will work together with the Principal Investigator and a team of three PhD students. The successful candidate is expected to be involved in advising the PhD students and participate in collaborative activities. In addition, they will present their research at national and international conferences and co-organise events and workshops. A strong background and/or interest in interdisciplinary work is highly desirable.

Please submit the following documents as part of your application:

• Cover letter, outlining your motivation for applying and interest in the project
• CV, including list of publications
• Copy of PhD certificate
• Transcript of records
• Exposé of research project (3-5 pages)
• Letter of reference