The Berkeley Language Center announces the availability of up to six one-semester GSR (Step IV) positions for one semester in the upcoming academic year (pending authorization of funding).

These fellowships will enable graduate students to work on special projects both to improve the quality of language instruction in their current department and to enhance their professional development as teachers, which can potentially benefit their future chances of employment at other institutions. Research projects might include research on:

  • theoretical aspects of second language acquisition
  • language learning media and instructional materials
  • handbooks on specific aspects of language teaching
  • innovative activities to teach literature or culture in the language class
  • drama techniques to teach language
  • performance-based tests to assess linguistic, literary, or cultural competence

The fellowship culminates in a presentation to the UC Berkeley language community. Past fellows have also presented their research at conferences, or published their work in established journals.

The projects will be undertaken in collaboration with the BLC Director, Rick Kern, and the BLC Associate Director, Mark Kaiser. Regular attendance at the weekly research fellows’ meetings is required. Graduate students teaching any foreign language at UC Berkeley are eligible to apply. Those teaching less commonly taught languages are particularly encouraged to apply. If you are interested, we strongly encourage you to discuss your research project proposal with either Rick Kern or Mark Kaiser..

Complete the fellowship application form, include a two-page description of your project (see specifications on the application form), a current CV, and a letter of recommendation by the chair of your department, explaining how your project benefits the teaching and research mission of your department and/or your academic development. 

Submit application and documentation via email or mail to the BLC department:

Professor Rick Kern
BLC Fellowship Program
Berkeley Language Center
B-40 Dwinelle Hall #2640

The application deadline is Monday, February 4, 2019. See the Berkeley Language Center website for more information.