Job Opening: Danforth Chair of Theology, Saint Louis University

The Department of Theological Studies at SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY invites distinguished applicants for the Danforth Chair. We seek an Associate or Full professor, and strongly encourage women and members of other underrepresented groups to apply.

Saint Louis University is a nationally ranked research university and has set ambitious benchmarks for research excellence and productivity. The Department of Theological Studies has an outstanding record of research awards and publications with leading university presses and journals – the Danforth chair will be expected to strengthen this emphasis. Candidates will have a distinguished publication record and an ambitious research agenda commensurate with the rank at which they are hired.

The research agenda of the Danforth chairholder will diversify existing expertise as well as methodological approaches within the Department. Area of specialization is open, though the Chair will be expected to strengthen one or both concentrations of our redesigned doctoral program (Christianity in Antiquity and Christian Theology). For more information on these two programs and our faculty, please visit our website: https://www.slu.edu/arts-and-sciences/theological-studies.

The standard teaching assignment in the department is 2/2; the Danforth chairholder also receives a graduate assistant. Successful candidates will teach a range of subjects at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

As one of our visible leaders, the Danforth chair will be asked to stimulate innovation within the Department, represent us effectively to wider constituencies and strengthen recruitment efforts for our programs. A record of professional leadership in the candidate’s field is highly desirable.

Regardless of his or her own faith tradition, the successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to the university’s Catholic and Jesuit mission, which affirms the importance of diversity and fosters an inclusive work environment (https://www.slu.edu/about/catholic-jesuit-identity/mission.php)

Saint Louis University, founded in 1818, is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. It is located in Midtown Saint Louis, within walking distance of the Theatre district and the Central West End, which was recently voted as one of the country’s top 10 neighborhoods. We are surrounded by nationally ranked medical centers, abundant cultural and recreational venues, and the Midwest’s premier innovation hub for technology research. Our region also boasts the 5 top-rated public school districts in Missouri.

All applications are made online at http://jobs.slu.edu and include a (1) cover letter, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) statement of research agenda, (4) a teaching statement where we invite you to reflect on high impact pedagogical practices and strategies for engaging a diverse student body, and (5) contact information for three letters of reference.

We will begin reviewing applications immediately until the position is filled.

Questions about this position should be directed to the chair of the search: Mary Dunn, Department of Theological Studies, Saint Louis University, 3800 Lindell Blvd., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Contact email: mary.dunn@slu.edu.

Saint Louis University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

Author: Fannie Bialek

Fannie Bialek is an Assistant Professor of Religion and Politics at the John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics at Washington University.

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