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)
• Names and contact information for 3 references.

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

Harvard Divinity School does not provide visa sponsorship for adjunct teaching positions. Please note that the attorneys representing individuals are not authorized to file visa petitions on behalf of Harvard Divinity School.

Contact Information

Applicants may contact the Office for Academic Affairs at Harvard Divinity School with any questions regarding the position.

Contact Email: academicaffairs@hds.harvard.edu

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