Postdoctoral Research & Teaching Associate

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education ( https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,000 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, is the heart of UGA's liberal arts learning environment. The research, scholarship and creative output by the faculty and students in more than 30 academic units set the pace for a dynamic environment at Georgia's flagship institution.

The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences is committed to advancing and sharing knowledge while fostering and inspiring creativity across the sciences, technology, arts and humanities, including data science and AI. In the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, one will experience the thrill of being part of an energetic academic and professional environment, surrounded by individuals whose innovative ideas are shaping the future and positively impacting society.

Applications should include a cover letter, CV, a statement of research interest, a one-page statement of teaching philosophy, writing sample of work related to theologically engaged anthropology, and contact information for three recommendations.

Applications received by January 20th, 2025, will receive full consideration. Questions about the position should be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Derrick Lemons at dlemons@uga.edu

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Teaching: The postdoctoral researcher will teach four courses per year related to theologically engaged anthropology, with a focus on ethics, culture, and religious practices. Specifically, the postdoctoral researcher will Teach a rotation of RELI 1003-Introduction to Religious Thought, RELI 4111 Theologically Engaged Anthropology, and RELI 4640 Anthropology of Religion. This teaching load is reflective of a tenure-track faculty member with a 50% teaching and 50% research. Ultimately, their teaching will prepare them for a competitive job market which requires teaching experience and excellent pedagogy.

The postdoctoral researcher will dedicate 50% of their time to research. Toward that end, the postdoctoral researcher will have the following opportunities to receive regular support and feedback.
* Monthly Seminars: The postdoctoral researcher will participate in monthly seminars featuring guest speakers from both anthropology and theology, focusing on case studies and key theoretical frameworks that address the intersection of the two disciplines.
* Workshops and Conferences: The postdoctoral researcher will participate in interdisciplinary workshops, where scholars will present research on themes related to theologically engaged anthropology, as well as the role of religious and cultural practices in supporting or hindering human flourishing.
* International Presentations: The postdoctoral researcher will present research findings at international conferences in anthropology, theology, and religious studies, helping to disseminate the knowledge gained from the project to a broader academic audience.
* Publications: The researcher will contribute to the development of a special issue for an academic journal focused on theologically engaged anthropology, as well as collaborate on a book project that will make the insights from the project accessible to a wider readership.