"Assistant Professor of Religious Studies with Specialization in Hindu Studies"

Position Title & Department: Assistant Professor of Religious Studies with Specialization in Hindu Studies

Department Description: The Department of Theology and Religious Studies is a diverse community of scholars who advance the teaching and study of religion with particular attention to fostering understanding of Catholic traditions. We interpret University of San Diego's commitment to being a Laudato Si' University as a call to support teaching and research that responds to urgent contemporary concerns. Information about the department is available at www.sandiego.edu/theo.

University Description: The University of San Diego, an engaged and contemporary Catholic institution, was founded by the Diocese of San Diego and the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1949. Governed by an independent board of trustees since 1972, USD remains committed to a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. Inspired by this centuries old tradition of Catholic higher education, the University welcomes people of all faith traditions and any, or no, religious background. The future success of USD relies on the contributions of those who seek to foster the development of engaged global citizens and an earnest confrontation of humanity's urgent challenges.

Detailed Description: The Department of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of San Diego announces a tenure-track position in Religious Studies at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin Fall 2026. Area of specialization is Hindu Studies with a focus on South Asia and/or Southeast Asia. The successful applicant should be able to demonstrate active engagement in broader conversations surrounding theory and method in the study of religion through their teaching and scholarship. Candidates with sub-specializations that engage environmental studies, food studies, and/or animal studies, and whose scholarship foregrounds ethical and pluralistic perspectives are especially encouraged to apply. The position carries a 3-3 teaching load. Teaching responsibilities will include introductory courses as well as upper-division courses in the area(s) of specialization, and may include courses that serve the core curriculum. The candidate would be expected to teach lower division courses (such as Introduction to World Religions and Exploring Religious Meaning). The faculty member may also teach courses in USD's Asian Studies, Women's and Gender Studies, Food Studies, or Embedded Ethics programs.

Background check: Successful completion of a pre-employment background check. Degree Verification Requirement: Persons offered employment in this position will be required to provide official education transcripts for degree verification purposes.

Job Requirements: Applicants should hold a PhD or its equivalent by the time of the appointment, September 2026. Commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching, an active scholarly agenda, and commitment to collaborative leadership are required.

Posting Salary: $7,000-7,333/month; Excellent Benefits. The University of San Diego offers a very competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, a retirement contribution given to you by the University, and access to on-campus Fitness Centers. Please visit the benefits section of our website to view all of the perks and benefits that USD has to offer at USD: Human Resources: Benefits.

Special Application Instructions: Click Apply Now to complete our online application. Materials should include: 1. Letter of application, explaining your interest in the position and envisioning how your expertise and commitments would contribute to our program and community of scholars. 2. Curriculum vitae. 3. Teaching statement, discussing your pedagogy, and your commitment to inclusive pedagogical practices. 4. Sample syllabus for an undergraduate course in Hindu Thought and Culture. 5. Research statement, describing your present project(s) and anticipated future trajectory. 6. Sample of scholarly or creative work (published or in process). 7. Contact information for three references who will be contacted for letters of reference. Applications must be complete by September 15, 2025.

Additional Details: The College of Arts and Sciences is at the heart of the University of San Diego. Our philosophy is built on the enduring values of the Catholic intellectual tradition, immersing students in the concepts of free inquiry, ethical conduct and compassionate service. The College aims to establish an academic foundation for students to thrive and gain a comprehensive education, which spans the sciences, arts and social sciences. Through our exemplary liberal arts education and rigorous scholarship, we aspire to not only educate the mind but also develop the whole person. The University of San Diego is a smoking and tobacco-free campus. For more information, visit www.sandiego.edu/smokefree.