Associate Professor in Contextual Theology

Your position

Your position is embedded within the Department of Texts in Contexts, a department where scholars from diverse disciplines work together to study sources from the Jewish-Christian tradition. Amongst other fields, our areas of focus include patristics, medieval theology, the history and reception of the Second Vatican Council, and (monastic) spirituality. Through interdisciplinary research we aim to deepen our understanding of the hermeneutic functioning and relevance of this tradition, and shed light on contemporary issues (such as economics, leadership, spirituality, interreligiosity, dialogue, and sustainability). This aligns with the objectives of the School’s Strategic Policy Plan ‘Religious Literacy for the 21st Century’ and shares the vision of Tilburg University. The research program Texts in Contexts is driven by the conviction that traditional sources are meaningful and valuable for today’s societal, academic and ecclesial contexts.

Profile

Throughout the Catholic tradition, scholars have reflected upon ever-changing contexts in a multitude of ways. In the more recent past, the Second Vatican Council has made dialogue with the modern world part and parcel of theological reflection. In order to heed the call of Gaudium et Spes to read the signs of the times, a job opening within the Department on Texts in Contexts is available, that will further strengthen and complement its existing expertise in biblical exegesis, historical theology, fundamental theology, philosophy and ethics.

The position offers the opportunity to contribute to a scholarly systematic theological conversation with the particular Dutch and European contexts of the early 21st century. This setting is characterized by ideological diversity ecological challenges and rapid technological change, as well as by lively debate on (post-Christian) identity construction, on the nature of prosperity and the viability of societal institutions. Such challenges tap into age-old questions on human autonomy, the nature of (religious) liberty and the social question, all of which have found particular responses within the Catholic tradition. We invite candidates who are able to draw from this rich well in an open and critical way, collaborating with their colleagues, and to seek theological answers and models relevant for today. This role calls for a solid grounding in the Catholic intellectual tradition, combined with reflective skills and methodological insight, as well as willingness to engage in dialogue across disciplines and perspectives.

Job Description

The Tilburg School of Catholic Theology is looking for a committed and enthusiastic colleague for the position of Associate Professor of Contextual Theology in the Department of Texts in Contexts. In this position, you will:

• actively engage within the Department, School and University; on the longer term, taking on leadership roles within the School and/or University will be expected;
• engage in relevant collaborations regarding your field, both at the University, in the Netherlands and internationally;
• provide English-taught courses in the field of systematic theology in Utrecht and Tilburg, on the longer term Dutch-taught courses as well;
• demonstrate an openness and willingness to engage in interfaith and ecumenical dialogue.
• conduct academic research in relation to your position and field of expertise and share results through peer-reviewed publications and professional literature;
• (pro)actively developing and realizing impact-related activities in relation to your position and field of expertise;
• contribute to the acquisition of external research funding, both independently and together with (junior) colleagues.

We are looking for a colleague who brings the following experience and qualities:

• You hold a PhD and an STD in Catholic systematic theology, or a theological discipline strongly related to this position;
• You have evident experience in obtaining external funding;
• You have, or are developing a clear research line, which connects to the international scholarly context of research and methods in contextual theology, and aligns to the mission of the School and the Department;
• You communicate clearly and thoughtfully, and enjoy effective collaboration with colleagues in an interdisciplinary context. You have experience in leadership roles, or are motivated to further develop leadership skills;
• You have a track record of international peer reviewed scientific output and collaboration;
• You have proven experience in academic education, are a committed and skilled lecturer, and are open to further developing modern didactic techniques;
• You have experience in supervising students, on the levels of Master students and PhD candidates;
• You have a good command of English (Proficiency in English is mandatory -CEFR level C2-) and Dutch (or are willing to learn Dutch at the short term);
• You preferably have a UTQ certificate or are willing to obtain this certification;
• You meet the requirements as expressed in the Apostolic Constitution Veritatis Gaudium and the Special statutes of the School. Appointment to this position requires permission to teach (missio canonica and nihil obstat) from the Grand Chancellor of Tilburg University.

Personal qualities/talents

• You demonstrate personal leadership: you take responsibility for your work and professional development and value self-knowledge;
• You are able and willing to take on value-based leadership/policy roles within the School and/or the University;
• You act with scientific integrity and care;
• You value Team Science: you express an awareness of being part of a team in working together, sharing knowledge and experiences, and contributing to an open and inclusive work environment.

Tilburg University offers excellent benefits in a pleasant working environment:

• Employment of 0,8 fte (32 hours per week).
• Salary between €6.512 and €7.904 gross per month for full-time employment (Associate Professor 2, salary scale 13). Tilburg University uses a neutral remuneration system based on relevant work experience.  
• This is a vacancy for a position in accordance with Article 2.3 paragraph 1 CLA DU. You will be given a temporary contract for the duration 12 (for internal candidates) or 18 months (for external candidates). Upon proven suitability and continuation in the same position, an employment contract of indefinite duration can be offered.
• Vacation pay of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• Over 8 weeks of vacation leave.
• Hybrid working with home working allowance (€2 p/day) and internet allowance (€25 p/month).
• Reimbursement sustainable commuting: walking, cycling, and public transport.
• Options model for additional leave, pension, a bicycle or personal training.
• Moving allowance (subject to conditions).
• 30% rule for international employees (if applicable).
• Pension through ABP.
• Ample training offer: personal development, leadership, education, research or language courses.
• Inclusive work culture: everyone welcome, equal opportunities.
• A green, inviting campus that’s easily accessible by public transport.

For more information, please see our website and the CLA Dutch Universities.

Tilburg University is a Catholic University in the Netherlands with five Schools. At Tilburg University, the social sciences and humanities hold a central position. In its teaching and research, our university actively seeks to engage with society, with citizens and civil society organizations. ‘Understanding Society’ is our motto. Internationally, Tilburg University has a strong reputation in academic education and research and fosters interdisciplinary research, with a particular emphasis on the theme of ‘broad prosperity’.

On the Tilburg School of Catholic Theology

The School of Catholic Theology (TST) provides academic education and conducts research in theology with a view to connecting the Catholic tradition with contemporary culture and society. TST has two research departments: one on Religion in Practice and one on Texts in Contexts. The School is located in Tilburg and Utrecht, and is accredited by the Holy See, allowing it to confer canonical degrees. TST educates students who are not only ‘religiously literate’ but carry their broad personal and academic development into many fields of work. The School is characterized by short lines of communication and an open and cordial atmosphere.  

Tilburg School of Catholic Theology

For more information about this position, please contact dr. Arnold Smeets, Head of Department Texts in Contexts, via: A.A.M.Smeets@tilburguniversity.edu