Postdoctoral Fellowship in Religion and the Public Conversation

The Center for Culture, Society and Religion at Princeton University invites applications for one Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) position for a one-year term anticipated to begin on September 1, 2024, with some limited flexibility.  This appointment may be renewed pending satisfactory performance and funding. Candidates for the PDRA rank are expected to be recent PhDs specializing in the study of religion in any discipline and should display interest and expertise in public-facing scholarship on religion. In addition to pursuing independent research, the fellow will work with the Center's project on "Religion and the Public Conversation," an initiative designed to equip Princeton students and faculty with knowledge and skills to connect their expertise with contemporary public discourse in various media.  

To this end, the successful candidate will have two main responsibilities. First, they will be expected to produce, over the course of the first year, a significant public-facing media product under the Center's banner (using Princeton's media facilities). This project should occupy approximately the same time as would ordinarily be committed to teaching one course. Examples of such products include a blog, a broadcast interview series, a podcast, an educational video or video series, or an online course/educational module. Second, they will help run a graduate student media team working on producing public-facing media content about religion. In addition, all Center affiliates are encouraged to participate in the weekly graduate writing workshop and attend Center events.  

If the appointment is renewed for a second year, the fellow may continue to produce media, or, alternatively, may have the opportunity to teach or team-teach one of the Center's course offerings, subject to sufficient enrollments and the approval of the Office of the Dean of the Faculty. During any semester of teaching, the candidate will carry a secondary rank of Lecturer. This position is subject to University's background check policy, and the work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University.

How to Apply: Candidates are required to apply online at https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/33041
The application deadline is February 15, 2024, 11:59 pm EST.  Submit the following documents: 
 
1. A current curriculum vitae;  
2. A cover letter that includes a proposal (not to exceed 500 words) for a public-facing media production as mentioned above;
3. A scholarly paper or dissertation chapter (not to exceed 10,000 words) that best represents the candidate's scholarly achievement or potential;  
4. Sample(s) of candidate's own products of public-facing scholarship on religion (examples might include op-eds, videos, podcasts, blogs, etc.); and
5. Contact information for two references, who may be asked to comment specifically on your qualifications for the proposed research project. 

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.