Research Associate (Fixed Term)

at  University of Cambridge

Applications are invited for two full-time Research Associate positions. The positions are fixed term for 2 years, with a start date of 01 October 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter. The latest possible start date is 01 January 2025. The successful applicants will work on an ERC-funded project led by Dr Catherine A. Bradley at the Faculty of Music.
The project offers the opportunity to conduct research into ritual contexts for and musical and poetic responses to the exclamation Benedicamus Domino (’Let us Bless the Lord’) in the period c.1000 — 1500. Candidates should propose a research project within this broader framework that relates to their own research interests and expertise to pursue over the course of the position.

Some possible areas of project focus include:

• Ritual and devotional contexts
• Documentary evidence of liturgical practice (such as Libri ordinarii)
• Plainchant sources and traditions for the Benedicamus Domino
• Benedicamus songs and tropes
• Carol and/or Cantio traditions
• Polyphony for the Benedicamus (especially c.1300 — 1500)
• ‘Simple’ polyphony

Applicants must hold (or provide evidence of nearing completion of) a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline (e.g., musicology, cultural studies, history, Latin language and/or literature, liturgy, or theology), and show a developing profile of publications. Successful candidates’ work will be capable of engaging with sophisticated conceptual problems relevant to the project. Applicants will ideally demonstrate a high level of competence in relevant languages, where appropriate. Previous experience of scholarship within a discipline and chronological period encompassed by the project is essential.
The postholders will be based in Cambridge, and undertake research trips as relevant and required as part of the role.
The position includes a limited amount of teaching in the Faculty of Music, with further opportunities if desired.

In order for your application to be considered, please upload the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (including publications)
• A two-page cover letter describing relevant expertise and a research proposal for the project
• A writing sample of no more than 12,000 words that you feel represents your work as a researcher
• Contact information for two referees

Please refer the Job description for details