The Departments of Philosophy at the University of Calgary and the University of Geneva, and the Minnesota Center for Philosophy of Science at the University of Minnesota invite applications for three full-time postdoctoral positions in conjunction with the project “From Biological Practice to Scientific Metaphysics,” sponsored by the John Templeton Foundation. This project brings together philosophers to address the challenges of drawing metaphysical conclusions from science by reconceiving the success of science in terms of practice and asking what the world must be like for successful practices to have evolved into particular forms.
Duration of positions: 2 September 2016 to 31 August 2018. Applications should be received by 15 March 2016 in order to ensure full consideration.
Applicants should have a Ph.D. in philosophy or related field with a background in the biological sciences, demonstrated interest in scientific practice and metaphysics, and evidence or promise of scholarly achievement. Prior training or work in the biological sciences is preferred. Candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups in philosophy are especially encouraged to apply; the project is committed to building a research team of diverse identities and backgrounds.
Successful candidates will work at one of the project's institutional locations, carrying out an original research program under the supervision of one of the principal investigators: C. Kenneth Waters (University of Calgary), Marcel Weber (University of Geneva), or Alan Love and Bill Wimsatt (University of Minnesota). Postdoctoral fellows will also collaborate with the two other teams through annual meetings and participation in Summer Institutes sponsored by the project.
To apply, please submit electronically an updated CV, a cover letter containing a brief description of research accomplishments and interests, a writing sample (e.g., article or chapter), and three names of references to the principal investigator at your preferred institutional location (Contact Information). Additionally, arrange for letters of recommendation on your behalf to be sent directly to the relevant principal investigator. (Note: applications submitted for one location will be considered automatically for other locations.) Questions about the project can be directed to any of the principal investigators.
Candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups in philosophy are especially encouraged to apply; the project is committed to building a research team of diverse identities and backgrounds.