Assistant Professor specializing in Modern Jewish Religious Thought and History

The Department of Religious Studies seeks a tenure-track assistant professor to start August 16, 2022, specializing in modern Jewish religious thought and history whose expertise includes the religious dimensions of the modern Middle East.

In Fall 2022, the College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Religious Studies will welcome a tenure-track faculty member in Jewish Studies as part of the Middle Eastern Studies cluster.  This position will join faculty in the departments of global languages and cultures, philosophy, and History who focus on Middle Eastern Studies.  The person hired to this position will conduct scholarship, teach existing courses, develop new courses for the Middle Eastern Studies minor and courses in Jewish studies. This person will have an affiliation with the International Studies program and may also contribute to other interdisciplinary programs. For information about this cohort please go to: https://udayton.edu/artssciences/about/cas-cohort.php

The Department of Religious Studies at UD offers introductory and advanced courses in the University's Common Academic Program for undergraduates, supports a vibrant major and several minors in Religious Studies and Theology, offers M.A.s in Theological Studies and Pastoral Ministry, and features a Ph.D. in Theology, with a focus on U.S. Catholic experience. The department also enjoys partnerships with regional Jewish communities. 

Expectations of the position include teaching courses in modern Jewish religious thought and history as a regular 3-3 teaching load. Additionally, responsibilities include teaching the undergraduate introductory course REL 103, as well as a general introduction to Judaism, and other specialized undergraduate, and possibly graduate courses in Judaism. The successful candidate is expected to pursue research broadly focused in Jewish religious thought and history after 1800 with particular focus on the modern Middle East (for example, Algerian Jewish thought, comparative Jewish/Muslim/Christian thought and dialogue, modern Middle Eastern Jewish thought, American Jewish religious perspective on the Middle East). This position will contribute to curriculum and programming in Middle Eastern and North Africa Studies and complementary courses in Jewish Studies in the Middle Eastern Studies cluster.  The successful candidate may also have opportunities to collaborate with the Jewish community in the greater Dayton and Cincinnati region. 

At the University of Dayton, we value inclusive excellence because we recognize that diversity, equity and inclusion are fundamental to academic and institutional excellence and to our Marianist mission. Inclusive excellence requires a comprehensive, cohesive and collaborative alignment of infrastructure, resources and actions. We strive to be active, intentional, and sustain engagement with and celebration of diversity in every dimension of institutional life. Because we seek a workforce with a wide range of perspectives and experiences, we encourage all candidates to apply.

Minimum qualifications:

ABD in religious studies, Jewish studies, theology or related fields, with anticipated completion of doctorate by July 1, 2022 Research focus and area of expertise in Jewish religious thought and history after 1800 whose expertise includes the religious dimensions of the modern Middle East. Evidence of an ability to engage classical texts (i.e. Tanakh and ancient rabbinic literature) Potential for successful teaching at the university level Articulation of a clear plan for future research Ability to contribute to Jewish Studies curriculum  

A complete application consists of: 

A cover letter that discusses ALL of the minimum qualifications and any relevant preferred qualifications met,  CV Sample syllabus for an Introduction to Judaism course with course outline, short list of books, and one assignment. Copies of graduate transcripts.  If the degree is not listed on the transcript, there must be a letter from the doctoral advisor attesting to completion of the degree. Contact information for three references (will only be called if candidate makes it to the second round of interviews)

Application deadline is November 5, 2021 at 11:55 PM EST.

For a complete list of qualifications and to apply, please go to: https://employment.udayton.edu/cw/en-us/job/499181/assistant-professor-specializing-in-modern-jewish-religious-thought-and-history

The University of Dayton is a top tier, Catholic Research University with offerings from the undergraduate to the doctoral levels.  Founded in 1850 by the Society of Mary, the University is a diverse community committed to advancing the common good through intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, community engagement and local, national and global partnerships. Guided by the Marianist educational philosophy, we educate the whole person and link learning and scholarship with leadership and service. 

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity, achieve equitable outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. As an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, we will not discriminate against minorities, women, protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, or on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The University is also pleased to provide support for spouses of prospective and newly hired faculty through its dual career program. While we cannot guarantee placement, we serve as an effective resource and support system for your spouse. Information can be found at http://www.udayton.edu/hr/employee_resources/dual_career_resources.php