Preposition: I wish to apply to this position advertised in the student e-list...

[Danube]

Which one is correct when applying for a vacancy?
I wish to apply to this position advertised in the student e-list or on the student e-list?
Thanks a lot.

[Cerberus™]

(Copied my own reply from another thread:)

I'd say both are fine. You can advertise something in a newspaper, or on a page. Something can be on a list or in a list. There is a very subtle difference that is hard to define.

Perhaps you could say that an item on a list is the standard way of saying it. Saying that something is on a list subtly reminds the reader of a page, which you write things on. When you say an item is in a list, you are emphasizing that a list is a sort of container in the abstract: there are things in it. When you are talking about several things on a list, the inclination to use "in" is a tad stronger.

Did you notice that I used on in my last sentence? I did that unconsciously, I only noticed when I reread it. I believe that is because on is ever so slightly more natural. You can use either preposition as you like.

[Cerberus™]

You could change the subject title of your first message to "on a list vs. in a list" so that it would be clearer for others.

[Natasha81]

Shouldn't it be "apply FOR this position"? I guess, it is usually "apply for a position", when applying for a job.

[Cerberus™]