Job description

The Faculty of Theology invites applications for a tenured position as Associate Professor in Interreligious Studies with a focus on modern Qur’anic hermeneutics.

We are seeking a candidate with expert knowledge of interreligious studies and modern Qur’anic hermeneutics, who represents the state of the art in research methods. The successful candidate combines research in interreligious studies with the study of the Qur’an in multi-religious contexts and modern societies. The successful candidate is not only proficient within the area of intertextuality, but is also someone whose work focuses on modern Qur’anic hermeneutics in relation to contemporary issues, e.g. the relationship between religious and secular worldviews, religion and human rights, and religion and gender. Modern Qur’anic hermeneutics includes expertise in the reception of the Qur’an historically as well as the interpretive tradition and interaction with other religious and secular traditions. Relevant candidates have a background in Religious studies, Islamic studies or other relevant fields.

The successful candidate is an experienced researcher and teacher, and is expected to initiate and lead research projects, supervise PhD candidates, participate in teaching, examination, and assessment at all levels, and to carry out administrative duties and leadership in accordance with the needs of the Faculty of Theology.

The Faculty of Theology has a long tradition of excellence in the study of interreligious relations, encounters and dialogue. Since 2011 the Faculty of Theology has developed Islamic studies (theology, philosophy and anthropology) as central to the Faculty’s research and teaching portfolio The advertised position will constitute a significant strengthening of the faculty within the fields of Interreligious Studies and Islam.

Applicants must document their suitability to contribute to the objectives stated in the University of Oslo’s strategic plan, especially to promote “independent, ground-breaking, long-term research” and “educate students with the knowledge, ability and willingness to create a better world”[1].

[1] UiO Strategy 2030

Qualification requirements

• Applicants must hold a PhD, or equivalent academic qualifications, in the field of religious studies, theology or a similar relevant field
• High proficiency in written Arabic
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English. International applicants are expected to teach in a Scandinavian language within two years (see Formal regulations below)
• Relevant research experience
• A solid record of relevant international scholarly publications
• Originality and innovation in research
• Documented experience of or potential for externally funded project acquisition and project management within research
• Documented basic university pedagogical competence. Applicants who cannot document basic university pedagogical competence must acquire this within two years from appointment

The following qualifications will be considered in the assessment of the applicants:

• Knowledge of the Nordic context
• Experience with project management
• Experience with digital humanities methods
• Proficiency in other relevant languages
• Experience with interreligious or intercultural dialogue work

Emphasis will be placed on the applicant’s scholarly excellence and experience. In the ranking of applicants, the whole range of qualifications will be considered, including the applicants` communication skills and their personal suitability.

Personal skills

• The following personal skills are highly desirable:
• Collaborative skills
• An open mind towards new methodological approaches and interdisciplinarity
• High personal motivation for research and teaching
• Motivation for academic leadership and administration

We offer

• Salary from NOK 661 400 – 746 900 per annum depending on competencies, in the position of Associate Professor (position code 1011)
• A professionally stimulating working environment
• Attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement, in addition to Oslo’s family-friendly environment with its rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities
• The successful candidate will have the opportunity to apply for promotion to a position as Professor at a later date

How to apply

The application must include:

• Cover letter containing a statement of motivation, summarizing scientific work and research interests (max. 2 pages).
• CV (summarizing education, positions, pedagogical experience, administrative experience and other qualifying activity)
• Copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only)
• Complete list of publications
• Research statement (max. 3 pages)
• Educational portfolio (3–6 pages) documenting educational competence and experience, including a reflection note on own practice and learning vision is anchored in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) criteria (focus on student learning, development over time, a research approach and a collegial attitude and practice. For guidance, see this page
• Description of qualifications in dissemination, management, and administration
• Up to 10 relevant academic works that the applicant wishes to be considered in the assessment of the application (submitted in pdf format)
• List of reference persons: 2–3 references listed with name, relation to applicant, e-mail, and phone number. At least one of the references should be in a position of academic leadership.

The application, with attachments, must be submitted in our electronic recruiting system. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University’s grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English or a Scandinavian language.

Interviews and trial lecture will form part of the appointment process.

Formal regulations

Please refer to the Rules for Appointments to Professorships and Associate Professorships at the University of Oslo, the Guide for Applicants and Members of the Assessment Committee and Rules for practicing the requirement for basic pedagogical competence at the University of Oslo.

Pursuant to section 25 (2) of the Freedom of Information Act, information concerning the applicant may be made public, even if the applicant has requested not to appear on the list of applicants.

The University of Oslo has a transfer agreement with all employees that is intended to secure the rights to all research results etc.

The University of Oslo has a personnel policy objective of achieving a balanced gender composition and to recruit people with an immigrant background.

The University of Oslo is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply for this position, regardless of their religious or ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, or physical disability.

Contactinformation

• Dean and Professor: Aud Valborg Tønnessen, + 47 22850339/+47 99383605 a.v.tonnessen@teologi.uio.no
• Senior executive officer: Anna Dyrkorn Tjora, phone number: +47-22857859, email: a.d.tjora@teologi.uio.no

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