Asssitant Professor of Chinese Religions

Title:

Assistant Professor of Chinese Religions
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Department of Religious Studies
This posting can be accessed directly at  by applicants.

Start date:

July 1, 2027

The Department of Religious Studies is recruiting for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Chinese Religions. Candidates should demonstrate clear evidence of their commitment to research and teaching, as well as their interest in mentoring students and participating in departmental life and service.
Candidates should have broad training in their field of expertise, relevant linguistic competencies, a commitment to interdisciplinary work, and a strong interest in engaging with broad theoretical issues in the study of religion, including critical scholarship on Chinese religions and religions in East Asia. Preference will be given to scholars whose work centers on popular, vernacular, or lived traditions from the late imperial through the contemporary periods.

UNC’s Department of Religious Studies is dedicated to the study of religions as historical and cultural phenomena. We take an interdisciplinary approach to understanding religious traditions from around the world: their history, sacred texts, beliefs, rituals, and institutions. At present, the faculty conduct research and teach courses in a number of religious traditions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Afro-diasporic and Indigenous religions.

They analyze religious life from the ancient and modern world, from ancient Sumer to present-day Senegal, from medieval Europe to 21st-century South Asia, and from early modern Japan to contemporary America. Because religious pluralism plays an important role in teaching the value of diversity, the Department is committed to bringing a broad range of perspectives into the study of religion.

UNC offers B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. programs in Religious Studies; undergraduate minors in Religious Studies, Christianity and Culture, Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies, and Jewish Studies; an honors program for undergraduate majors; as well as frequent public lectures and continuing education seminars that advance the academic study of religion.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity employer that welcomes all to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Posting closes:
November 3rd, 2026

About The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill:

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC
- Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The successful candidate will be expected to teach a range of undergraduate and graduate courses (2:2 course load, including introductory and upper-level courses in Chinese religions and the religions of East Asia) and contribute to the Religions of Asia concentration. Candidates should complement the existing expertise of our current faculty, and their work should align with our departmental mission as outlined on our website https://religion.unc.edu/about/mission-and-values/.

Candidates are expected to have a Ph.D. in religious studies or a related field. Required Documents:
Curriculum Vitae, Cover Letter, Writing/research Sample, Teaching Statement, Research Statement, Three Letters of Reference. Reference letters may be uploaded via Interfolio. A fourth signed letter may be requested during later review. A Teaching Statement is required. Teaching evaluations and sample syllabi are optional.