The candidate will research Malayalam mathematical manuscripts reflecting mathematical practice in late Medieval Kerala for up to four years. The scope of the project ranges from elementary and practical mathematics to the work of the Kerala School of mathematical astronomy. The research involves analyzing the texts in the contexts of their practical-historical setting and producing editions and research papers. It will be conducted in the framework of the chair for the History and Philosophy of Mathematical Sciences at the ETH and in cooperation with scholars in India.
The successful candidate must have a very high level of literacy in Malayalam, including older forms of Malayalam, as well as academic training in history, mathematics, and/or Malayalam literature/linguistics. Fluency in spoken English and proficiency in written English is also a requirement. Training or proficiency in any of the following is an advantage: Sanskrit, Tamil, history of mathematics/astronomy, history of medieval/pre-colonial south India, Dravidian linguistics. Post-doctoral candidates are preferred, but if no excellent post-doctoral candidates are found, candidates for doctoral studies will also be considered. The salary will be paid according to ETH standards.
We look forward to receiving your online application including a CV and one-page letter of motivation describing your background, training, and interest in the project until November 15, 2018. Early applications are encouraged. Further materials (publications, reference letters, etc.) may be requested later. Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
For further information about the the Chair of History and Philosophy of Mathematical Sciences, please visit our website www.hpm.ethz.ch/the-group.html. Questions regarding the position should be
directed to Prof. Roy Wagner by email roy.wagner@gess.ethz.ch (no applications).
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