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Posted June 04, 2026

One-Year Appointment in Native American Religious Studies

Harvard University
Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States 02163 Full Time
Reference: 285055647
Harvard University



Position
Details

Title One-Year Appointment in Native American Religious Studies
School Harvard Divinity School
Department/Area Native American Religious Studies
Position Description
Harvard Divinity School invites applications for a one-year appointment in Native American Religious Studies for the academic year 2026-27. This position seeks a scholar whose teaching and research engage Indigenous religious traditions, lifeways, and intellectual frameworks in North America, with attention to the ethical, historical, and contemporary dimensions of Native American religious experience. Scholars with appointments at other institutions, who are interested in a visiting year at HDS, are especially welcome to apply.

The successful candidate will contribute to the scholarly formation of students preparing for careers in ministry, academia, and public leadership. The position calls for a scholar who can engage theological, historical, ethical, and comparative questions while centering Indigenous perspectives and community-based knowledge systems. Areas of specialization are open.

Responsibilities

  • Teach 2 courses over the academic year, including introductory and advanced offerings in Native American religious traditions
  • Deliver a public lecture and participate in workshops, colloquia, and community events
  • Advise and mentor students, including those interested in doctoral work, ministry, chaplaincy, and Indigenous community engagement
  • Collaborate with faculty across related HDS programs (e.g., Theology, Ethics, Ministry Studies, Indigenous Studies) and across University departments
Basic Qualifications
Applicants should demonstrate the following qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Religious Studies, Theology, Native American and Indigenous Studies, or a closely related field—ABD considered
  • Demonstrated expertise in Native American or Indigenous religious traditions
  • Record of effective teaching at the undergraduate and/or graduate level (Please note that the work location for this position is Cambridge, MA, as all teaching at HDS is in-person and on our campus.)
  • Ability to engage theological and ethical questions in a divinity school setting
Additional Qualifications
  • Publications in the relevant research and teaching area
  • Engagement with Indigenous communities and/or community-based research or ministry
  • Familiarity with issues of Indigenous sovereignty, decolonization, and religious freedom
  • Capacity to contribute to interdisciplinary and interreligious conversations
  • Knowledge of relevant Indigenous language(s)
Special Instructions
Applicants should submit:
  • Cover letter addressing teaching experience and interest in divinity education
  • Current curriculum vitae
  • Statement of teaching philosophy, including approach to teaching Native American religious traditions in a theological context
  • Sample syllabus (preferred)
  • Candidates should provide the names and email addresses of three professional references who are prepared to submit letters of recommendations. The School may contact those persons directly at a later stage in the process.


Review of applications will begin on June 1, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.

Please note, if visa sponsorship is needed, Harvard retains the discretion to determine which visa status is appropriate and whether a visa sponsorship application will ultimately be submitted, including payment of any applicable fees.
Contact Information
Applicants may contact the Office for Academic Affairs at Harvard Divinity School with any questions regarding the position.
Contact Email [email protected]
Salary Range
$60,000 – $140,000 (commensurate with experience)

Compensation and Benefits
  • Compensation commensurate with rank and experience
  • Eligibility for institutional benefits in accordance with university policy
  • Office space and access to library and research resources
Minimum Number of References Required 3
Maximum Number of References Allowed 3
Keywords
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.

Harvard has an policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s . Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

    Applicant Documents
    Required Documents
    1. Curriculum Vitae
    2. Cover Letter
    Optional Documents




      Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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