Research Associates

Job Description

Research Associates will participate in the creation of a database for translation and translation-related research. This internship program is demanding, but also offers very unusual opportunities for learning about Buddhist languages, thought, and terminology that make this program an excellent choice for students considering an academic career or career as a translator. Associates will be closely supervised in their work by postdoctoral fellows and will take classes related to their training, including advanced language classes. They will be able to attend symposia held year-round featuring leading Buddhist scholars from around the world, and to take advantage of the cultural and educational resources of the University of California, located just two blocks away. Associates will also be eligible to take classes in Buddhist meditation,Tibetan yoga, and related teachings at a nearby Buddhist institute at no charge.

The kinds of work done by Research Associates will vary depending on their skills, but could include the following:

review of texts in canonical languages or translations in Western languages to extract relevant terms and terminology;
research on language, linguistics, history, and Buddhist thought in primary and secondary sources;
data entry;
work on database design;
coding of texts according to the standards of the Text Encoding Initiative.

Hours

The 2011 Research Associates program will begin in October. Research Associates work 6 days a week, 8:30 AM – 5 PM; however, time is built into the schedule for classes and study. A one-year commitment is required.

Requirements

Applicants must have completed a BA before entering the program, preferably with a major or minor related to
Buddhist studies.
A minimum of two years of formal instruction in Sanskrit, Pali, Classical Tibetan, or Classical Buddhist Chinese.
Computer-programming and database-related skills are desirable but not necessary.
Applicants should be familiar with basic Buddhist teachings.
Excellent attention to detail, flexibility, and a willingness to take instruction.
Willingness to work in a setting shaped by Buddhist principles (including vegetarian meals); however, applicants
need not have a personal involvement in Buddhist teachings or practices.
U.S. Citizenship or other lawful basis for staying in this country during the internship.

Compensation

This is an unpaid internship position. Research Associates will receive room and board and a living expenses stipend of $150 monthly.

How to Apply

Submit an email expressing interest to the email address given below. MRCBL will send you an application form together with a request for additional documentation. Completed applications must be received by April 4, 2011. You will be asked to submit one letter of recommendation from a faculty member in a position to assess your suitability for the program and your skills, so you may wish to make arrangements for such a letter in advance. Notifications of acceptance will be sent out by May 2, 2011.

Contact: Keila Diehl
keilad@mangalamresearch.org