Call for Expressions of Interest for two positions as Head of Research Unit

The Agencia Estatal Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)and the Max-Planck-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Wissenschaften e.V. (MPG) present the Joint Research Initiative "Convivencia: representations, knowledge and identities (500-1600 AD)."

The aim of the Joint Research Initiative "Convivencia" is to address from a multidisciplinary perspective a formative period of the European world (500-1600 AD) with its cultural and religious heterogeneity.

Principal topics of the Joint Research Initiative (JRI) include:

- The appropriation of past forms of art and science in new contexts.
- Representation of contact and conflict in texts and images.
- Transmission and transformation of institutional and legal models.
- Spaces of Convivencia (places of learning, sacred and profane spaces, etc.)

The JRI aims to establish a research unit consisting of two groups, each headed by a co-director and of up to four fellows per group.

The JRI is initially funded by CSIC and MPG for five years, with the possibility of an extension for five more years upon positive evaluation of performance. The JRI will be located initially in Madrid at the Centro de Ciencias Humanas y Sociales (CSIC-CCHS).

The CSIC and MPG are inviting to submit applications for two PI positions to lead the research units, and to act as co- directors of the JRI
"Convivencia".

The positions are devoted solely to research: no teaching duties are involved. The initial contract will run for a five-year period with the possibility of renewal for a further five years. The salary is set according to the applicant's experience and merits. Successful applicants will be employed by CSIC and should take up their positions as soon as possible.

Applicants should have experience in both launching and heading a research programme. They are expected to have a strong record of international scholar productivity an d a commitment to scientific excellence and inter-institutional cooperation.

Applicants are requested to submit their applications in English by November 30, 2009. This should include a CV, a brief statement of how their profile fits into the "Convivencia" programme, a list of publications, a research proposal of how the "Convivencia" project should be developed (800 words maximum) and names and addresses (including email) of three referees who may be contacted for a letter of recommendation.


Applications should refer to "Convivencia - Head of Research Unit" and be submitted to Prof. Mercedes Garcia Arenal mercedes.garciaarenal@cchs.csic.es
with a copy to: convivenciainitiative@cchs.csic.es

Short-listed candidates will be asked to come to Madrid for an interview (travel expenses will be covered by the JRI). Enquiries concerning the research project and adm inistrative questions should be directed to Prof. Mercedes García-Arenal.

Scholars of all nationalities are encouraged to apply. CSIC and MPG promote the full participation of women in research. CSIC and MPG are equal opportunity employers. Applicants with disabilities who are equally qualified will be favoured.