Who is Saint Louis University? Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service.
The Department of Theological Studies at SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY seeks to hire a tenure-track (Assistant) or tenured (Associate) specialist in early Islam as the inaugural John Renard Professor in Islamic Studies. Research proficiency in classical Arabic religious texts is expected, along with the ability to work in primary source texts essential for Late Antiquity studies more broadly. Special consideration will be given to scholars with expertise in early encounters between Islam and Christianity and/or Judaism. The appointment is expected to begin on August 1, 2022.
The Renard Professorship is named after emeritus colleague John “Jack” Renard, a renowned scholar of early Islam who taught in the Department of Theological Studies at SLU for more than forty years. This hire will be one of at least two new faculty appointments in late antique Mediterranean religions. We are especially interested in candidates whose research interests and methodologies expand existing departmental expertise. Faculty teach two courses per semester. Our new colleague will contribute to our department’s commitments to diversity and equal opportunity in higher education through their research, teaching, and service.
Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree for appointment. The successful candidate will demonstrate significant scholarly promise, and in the case of a more established scholar, will also have a distinguished record of research and publication. Regardless of rank, the successful candidate will demonstrate dedication to graduate and undergraduate teaching and mentorship, a commitment to service to the department, college, and university, and a willingness to contribute to the continued development of a methodologically diverse and collaborative department. Regardless of their own religious affiliation, 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).
To apply:
All applications must be made online at https://slu.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Careers. Please include the following documents, which should be uploaded – ideally as a single PDF file – on the third page (“My Experience”) of the application:
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae
Pedagogical Statement (1-2 pages) that includes a list of 2-3 new courses the applicant would like to develop
Example of Scholarship (short writing sample or other media that demonstrates your scholarly approach to the study of early Islam)
Please also submit three letters of reference; letter writers should email their letters directly to theology@slu.edu (using subject header “Islam Search - Recommendation for [Applicant Name]”). Applications will be accepted until December 15, 2021. Questions about this position should be directed to the Search Committee Chair, Peter Martens (peter.martens@slu.edu).
Vaccine Protocol: Saint Louis University will require COVID-19 vaccinations for all students, staff, and faculty who are physically present on our St. Louis campuses. As a prospective and/or a new employee at Saint Louis University, you will be required to comply with the University’s vaccination protocol. Proof of full vaccination will be required before the start of employment in order to work at Saint Louis University. If you are not vaccinated, you will be required to begin the vaccination process at the time of your first day of employment. Exemptions may be granted on the grounds of religious beliefs or medical circumstances.
Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for the position applied for without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. We welcome and encourage applications from minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities (including disabled veterans). If accommodations are needed for completing the application and/or with the interviewing process, please contact Human Resources at 314-977-5847.
