“A linguistically and culturally diverse area”

Prof. Dr Jan Patrick Zeller has been appointed to the Chair of Slavic Linguistics at the Institute of Slavic Studies. The linguist specialises in the relationship between language and society in Slavic-speaking countries, but is also interested in psycholinguistics and hearing research.

Welcome to the University of Oldenburg! What made you decide to come here?

At the University of Oldenburg I can pursue my two main interests in an ideal way. One is researching how language relates to society, culture and history in Poland, Belarus, Ukraine and the Russian Federation. Secondly, I am interested in the psycholinguistic aspects of multilingualism, which I hope to combine with hearing research in the future. Having studied and done my Ph.D. in Oldenburg, I know the University, the city and the kale very well, and appreciate its many advantages

What do you like about your subject?

The great thing about Slavic Studies is that it deals with language and literature, but also with people, society, history, politics and culture. The Slavic-speaking countries form a linguistically and culturally diverse area. Historically and currently, this area has been characterized by mutual linguistic, cultural and social contact and by often shared but always interrelated historical experiences. Unfortunately, this is currently manifesting itself in its most terrible form. At the same time knowledge in Germany about these societies and cultures is not very well developed, as is becoming clear again.

What is your tip for surviving on campus?

Whatever you study, think outside the box. Keep an open mind and be curious!