Assistant Professor of Jewish Studies

Santa Clara University Department of Religious Studies; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Santa Clara University, within the Department of Religious Studies, seeks a faculty member with expertise in Jewish Studies and religion to teach and mentor undergraduates. The successful candidate will contribute to a research agenda culminating in publications and participate in Jesuit mission and diversity initiatives.

Demonstrated excellence in teaching and a strong plan for scholarship are required, along with an ability to build ties with local Jewish communities and Silicon Valley

Qualifications

• PhD by appointment start date (Sept 1, 2027) in Jewish Studies/Religious Studies or related field.
• Demonstrated potential for inclusive teaching and mentoring of a diverse undergraduate population.
• Evidence of scholarship leading to publication in Jewish Studies.

Responsibilities

• Teach courses in religion and Jewish Studies.
• Mentor and advise undergraduate students.
• Develop scholarly agenda leading to publication.
• Engage with local Jewish communities and Silicon Valley initiatives.

Skills

Teaching

DEI commitment

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Jewish Studies/Religious Studies

Job description

The department seeks candidates with competence in both the study of religion and Jewish Studies. The area of scholarly concentration, region(s) of focus, methodological approach, and time period are open. Possible areas of scholarly expertise and methodological approaches include, but are not limited, to the environment/ecology, ethics, technology, history, social scientific approaches, and/or interreligious dialogue. Successful candidates will demonstrate that they are committed to pursuing their scholarship and teaching within a framework committed to the goals of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Candidates must also show evidence of excellent university-level teaching, an agenda for scholarship leading to publication in the area of Jewish Studies, and an understanding and support of the University’s Jesuit, Catholic mission. In addition, a successful candidate will contribute to the university’s ongoing effort to build relationships with local Jewish communities, and related initiatives within Silicon Valley, as part of their overall contributions to the Hazon Forum, an initiative recently funded by the Koret Foundation.

Application Deadline

October 15, 2026

Terminal degree (Ph.D.) in Jewish Studies/Religious Studies or a related field by appointment start date (September 1, 2027).
Demonstrated potential for effective and inclusive teaching and mentoring of a diverse undergraduate student population. Leadership potential within both the university and within the broader community, including in the Hazon initiative.
Evidence of an agenda for scholarship and promise of publication in the field of Jewish Studies.