1) To examine certain arithmetical-algebraic texts that are already known but require more in-depth study, such as al-Fārisī's Asās al-qawā‛id fī uṣūl al-fawā'id (13th c.); al-Kāshī's Miftāḥ al-ḥisāb (15th c.), al-Yazdī's 'Uyūn al-ḥisāb (16th c.) and al-'Āmilī's Khulāṣat al-ḥisāb (16th c.).
2) To embed the study of these texts within a broader historical analysis of the mathematical knowledge exchanged through Persianate networks (algebra and arithmetic, but also computational practices related to accountancy and other activities).

The PhD thesis will be supervised by Prof. Eleonora Sammarchi.

The responsibilities of the PhD student recruited to this project are as follows:
• Completing the PhD dissertation
• Conducting textual analysis of Arabic sources
• Attending project meetings and research colloquia
• Collaborating closely with MediMath project members (internal and external collaborators), as well as with the MOMuG team
• Co-organizing project workshops, conferences, and events
• Contributing to the MediMath lexicography (a multi-language digital tool that will compile outputs from the entire project)
• Participating in the project's communication strategy, including managing one section of the project website (Events and Publications)
• Building academic networks with colleagues inside and outside Switzerland
• Presenting research at academic conferences.

We are looking for a motivated candidate who can demonstrate a strong commitment to the project, the potential to produce research of international standard, and robust methodological skills. Candidates should be reliable, capable of working both independently and collaboratively. An active willingness to contribute to a supportive and inclusive work environment is essential. Candidates must hold a MA degree (with very good grades) in: History of Science, History, Islamic studies, or related fields, with a proven ability to work with Arabic texts. Fluency in written and spoken English is required. A proven interest in current debates in history of science and Islamic studies and a willingness to be part of an interdisciplinary team are expected. Knowledge of Persian and previous experience of working with mathematical texts are an advantage but not required. Relocation to Bern is expected.

Candidates nearing completion of their MA are also welcome to apply. However, they must submit a detailed and realistic timeline for completing their MA, accompanied by a confirmation letter from their MA supervisor.

The position is based in the Department of Social Anthropology and Cultural Studies (SACS), within the unit Middle East and Muslim Societies (MOMuG). The role is limited to a maximum of three years. We offer an enriching experience as part of an international and dynamic research team, with excellent facilities and working conditions adhering to cantonal standards. You will join a supportive, collegial environment with flexible working arrangements. The University of Bern is dedicated to the principles of equality and diversity. We strongly encourage applications from individuals with migration background, LGBTIQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, People of Colour, and those from minority backgrounds in the Swiss context.

Applications should include:
• A cover letter explaining your interest in the project
• A detailed CV
• A copy of relevant degree certificates and a detailed academic transcript (including classes attended)
• a writing sample (e.g. one chapter of the MA thesis, publication, seminar paper)

The documents should be submitted as a single file in PDF format named as follows: yourSurname_MediMath_WP3.pdf (e.g. Sammarchi_MediMath_WP3.pdf).
Deadline for applications: 10 August 2025 (midnight CEST).
Please send your applications to Debora Ulrich (debora.ulrich@unibe.ch) with the subject line: PhD MediMath WP3.
If you are short-listed, you will be asked to provide contact details for two references, and a two-page description of a PhD project that fits within the MediMath project. Interview dates: end of August.