Assistant Professor of Religious Studies

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Job Posting Title

Assistant Professor of Religious Studies

Job Description Summary

Faculty

Job Description

The Department of Religious Studies at Wellesley College invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professorship in Religious Cultures of East Asia/Religions of Transnational East Asia, to begin in Fall 2027. We seek applicants trained and qualified to teach in one or more of the following areas: historical and/or contemporary religion in East Asia; global or transnational East Asian religions (any period); or diasporic East Asian religions. As a deeply interdisciplinary department, we welcome a variety of disciplinary and methodological engagements appropriate to Religious Studies broadly conceived. Forms of analysis may include but need not be limited to one or more of the following: historical, social scientific or comparative approaches; philosophy and ethics; gender and sexuality; animals, ecology, the environment; literature, performance, and visual culture. Advanced competence in the relevant languages and fluency in the relevant primary textual materials are required. 

The successful candidate will offer four courses per year. Candidates with advanced (doctoral) training in Religious Studies, East Asian Studies and/or a related discipline are encouraged to apply. Candidates should hold a PhD at the time of application or by the time that the appointment begins, or shortly thereafter.

Please submit applications via the Wellesley College online system at https://www.wellesley.edu/about-us/working-at-wellesley. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, graduate and undergraduate transcripts, a brief description of four courses that you might offer in your first year and names and contact details of three referees. Review of applications will begin on September 15, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. As the search proceeds, applicants called for preliminary interviews may be asked to supply research and teaching statements, and finalists will be asked to provide writing samples.

The minimum salary for Assistant Professors is $103,000.00 annually.

Company Description

Wellesley’s mission is to provide an excellent liberal arts education to women who will make a difference in the world. We advance our mission by working together as a community—faculty, students, staff, and alumnae. 

Embark on a fulfilling career journey at Wellesley College, where we prioritize your well-being.  For those roles that are half-time or greater, we offer a comprehensive array of benefits and resources designed to enhance both your work-life balance and long-term success. 

• Exceptional Benefits Package: Access a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision and pre-tax saving  benefits, life insurance, disability coverage (for full-time Faculty), and more to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones.

• Retirement Savings: Plan for the future with our retirement savings plan. Wellesley College contributes up to 10.5% towards your 403(b) plan for eligible employees.

• Work/Life and Wellness: Caregiving support through Wellthy, legal plan insurance, pet insurance discount and a variety of other resources including retirement planning, and access to cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

• Commuting and Transportation: Enjoy the convenience of free parking on our picturesque campus, easily accessible from major roadways. We are also accessible via the MBTA commuter rail. 

• Campus Privileges: Enjoy free use of our state-of-the-art athletic and fitness facilities with onsite fitness classes, Library resources, and seize opportunities to attend diverse campus events that contribute to a vibrant community. 

Apply today and take your first step toward a rewarding career with Wellesley College – where your unique strengths and success are celebrated as part of our shared commitment to inclusivity!

Worker Sub-Type

Faculty

Time Type

Full time

EEO Statement

At Wellesley, we embrace and honor difference and diversity. We believe the best ideas—the best solutions—draw on a range of voices, perspectives, and experiences. As a college, and as a community, we are dedicated to assuring that all members of the Wellesley community have an equal opportunity to flourish. 

Wellesley College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals in hiring and advancement based on any legally protected status. Candidates who believe they can contribute to the College community are encouraged to apply.

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