Department of Language Science and Technology
Assistant Professor in Language Neuroscience and Neurotechnology
(Ref. 260818012)
The Department of Language Science and Technology (LST) is an academic unit within the Faculty of Humanities dedicated to the scientific study of language in all its facets. With a team over 70 committed academic and teaching/clinical staff members, our work spans from investigating the biological and cognitive foundations of language to its societal function in multilingual environments and its transformation through technology. The Department pursues interdisciplinary research that integrates core language science domains such as artificial intelligence and big data analytics, with applications in communication, education and healthcare. Alongside research activities, the Department actively translates scholarly insights into practice through clinical services, educational outreach and technology development that serve both local and international communities. The Department houses several specialised units, including the Speech Therapy Unit, the Research Centre for Language, Cognition and Neuroscience, and the Centre for Translation Studies, which serve as vital hubs for both research and practical application. More information about the Department can be found at https://www.polyu.edu.hk/lst/.
The Department invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position. We seek a scholar with strong expertise in integrating neuroscience and neurotechnology with language and speech data using computational approaches, including artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning, and a demonstrated commitment to translating research into clinical practice.
We are particularly interested in candidates who:
• design and develop computational AI, machine learning or deep learning architectures to model language and speech processes at the neural level;
• use neurotechnological tools [e.g., EEG, MEG, fMRI, fNIRS, TMS, tDCS or brain-computer interfaces (BCI)] to investigate language and speech in typical and clinical populations;
• have a strong track record of research in language neuroscience, speech-language pathology or related fields, with clear clinical applications (e.g., aphasia, dyslexia, developmental language disorders or other communication and neurological conditions); and
• demonstrate excellence in translating research into clinical tools, neuro-rehabilitation protocols, assistive technologies, or digital therapeutics.
Duties
The appointee will be required to:
(a) contribute to the teaching/learning activities for the Department at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and supervise student projects and theses;
(b) lead and/or participate in the planning, management and curriculum development;
(c) develop e-learning modules and design innovative pedagogy;
(d) secure external competitive research grants, conduct academic research, publish in top-tier refereed journals, and provide academic leadership in teaching, research and other scholarly activities;
(e) foster research collaborations both locally and internationally;
(f) engage the industries in high-level, impact-rich consultancies;
(g) carry out academic and administrative duties; and
(h) perform any other duties as assigned by the Head of Department or his/her delegates.
Qualifications
Applicants should:
(a) hold a PhD degree in a relevant field, such as Neuroscience, Linguistics, Cognitive Science, Speech-Language Pathology, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science or a closely related field;
(b) demonstrate expertise in neuroscience and neurotechnology, as evidenced by publications and research experience using one or more of the following:
• Neuroimaging (e.g., f/MRI, EEG/MEG, fNIRS or ECoG);
• Neuromodulation (e.g., TMS, tDCS/tACs or DBS);
• Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) or assistive neurotechnologies;
• Computational modelling of neural signals;
(c) have a strong track record in designing and developing AI, machine learning, or deep learning models for language or speech data;
(d) have evidence of clinical translation or strong potential to translate research into clinical practice (e.g., aphasia, dyslexia, developmental language disorders or other communication and neurological conditions);
(e) have experience in teaching and curriculum development, with a willingness to contribute to programme planning and management;
(f) have a strong track record of publishing in high-quality international journals as a first or corresponding author, and demonstrated potential to secure competitive external research funding;
(g) be open to the use of e-learning and blended learning strategies in teaching and scholarship; and
(h) have good networking ability and interdisciplinary collaboration skills.
Conditions of Service
A highly competitive remuneration package will be offered. Initial appointment will be on a fixed-term gratuity-bearing contract. Re-engagement thereafter is subject to mutual agreement. For general information on terms and conditions for appointment of academic staff in the University, please visit the website at https://www.polyu.edu.hk/hro/docdrive/careers/doc/Prof.pdf.
Consideration of applications will commence on 17 September 2026 until the position is filled.
Posting date: 18 August 2026