Knight Distinguished Chair for the Study of Religion and Culture (open rank)

Description

Knox College invites applications for the Knight Distinguished Chair for the Study of Religion and Culture. We seek a scholar with broad interests and global perspective in religious studies to lead an undergraduate-focused interdisciplinary program. The position includes endowed funding for research support and development of the religious studies program. We invite applications for the full-time, open-rank appointment in Religious Studies to begin September 1, 2024 or later. Scholars at the rank of advanced assistant professors or early associate professors are especially encouraged to apply. Appointment will be in religious studies and, where appropriate, a related discipline-based department. 

We are open to any specializations within the field of religious studies, broadly defined. A successful candidate will be able to teach Introduction to Religious Studies and courses at all levels in their specialization. Such specializations might include global religious movements of the major Western religious traditions; Asian or South Asian religions; African religions or religions of the African Diaspora; Indigenous religions; Religions of the Americas; Gender and Religion, or Religion and Popular Culture. 

Knox College, established in 1837, is an independent, selective liberal arts institution with a mission of access, a diverse student body, and a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching. We are particularly interested in creative, energetic teachers of undergraduate students who can contribute to Knox College’s considerable diversity and reflect that diversity in their teaching, mentoring, and research. With over 35% of the student body identifying as U.S. students of color and more than 15% international students, the College seeks courses appealing and welcoming to all of Knox’s students.

The position involves a six-course teaching load (two courses in each of three 10-week terms) that includes introductory, intermediate, and advanced courses in Religious Studies, as well as other courses that contribute to the general liberal arts curriculum. Advising and mentorship of advanced students are included in the responsibilities for faculty appointments.

The Religious Studies program covers diverse areas in its teaching and research methods and interests, to which an ideal candidate will contribute. The candidate we hire will have significant opportunity to revise the Religious Studies minor and develop programmatic offerings to appeal to the next generation of students and align the program with trends within the field.

Knox College provides a competitive salary and a strong benefit package including health, dental, vision and life insurance, and access to a retirement plan; a tuition remission benefit is available after a two-year waiting period. Additional information can be found on our Human Resources webpage at https://www.knox.edu/offices/human-resources/employee-benefits-and-forms.

Submission via Interfolio.

Review of applications will begin on January 1, 2024 and continue until the position is filled. Questions may be addressed to: relssearch@knox.edu.

Qualifications

Qualifications: Ph.D. is expected at the time of appointment with a preference for advanced assistant professors or early associate professors with a proven track record of program-level directorship and development.

Application Instructions

Candidates should submit:

• A cover letter that addresses the qualifications listed above, including the candidate’s research interests, teaching interests, program leadership experience, and approach to teaching a diverse community of undergraduate students.

• Curriculum vitae

• An unofficial transcript

• Three letters of recommendation

Additional materials may be requested at a later date.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

In keeping with its commitment to equal rights since it was founded in 1837, Knox College particularly welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups. Knox College does not discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, religion or religious affiliation, sexual orientation or preference, age, marital or family status, disability, veteran status, or other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law in admission, financial aid, employment, athletics, or any other aspect of its educational programs or activities. In addition, Knox College is prohibited by