Description
Faculty Position in New Testament
United Lutheran Seminary is an institution of the ELCA, and successful candidates should be committed to its mission and share its ecumenical and multicultural commitments. Such candidates will participate in our commitment to the dignity and solidarity of all persons and the value of intercultural understanding.
ULS seeks to build a diverse, inclusive faculty that can support, educate and promote an increasingly diverse student population; we welcome applications from women and minority candidates. Salary and benefits are competitive with faculty among peer institutions and commensurate with experience teaching in higher education.
United Lutheran Seminary is currently seeking a tenure-track or tenured faculty member for a position in Biblical Studies, with a specific focus on New Testament studies. The appointment is open to all ranks, with promotion and tenure decisions contingent upon the candidate's qualifications and experience. The position's start date is flexible, with opportunities available for both the Spring and Fall semesters of 2027.
The successful candidate is expected to fulfill several key responsibilities:
1. Course Offerings: Offer five courses per year across various degree programs, including MDiv, MA, STM, DMin, and Ph.D. This requires versatility in course design and delivery, catering to different academic levels and learning formats.
2. Mentorship and Advising: Advise students in their academic and spiritual development. This involves providing guidance, support, and mentorship to help students achieve their academic and professional goals.
3. Research and Publication: Engage in research and publication in the field of New Testament studies. This is crucial for maintaining academic excellence and contributing to the scholarly discourse in the field.
4. Committee Participation: Participate in committee work, contributing to the seminary's governance and decision-making processes. This includes involvement in curriculum development, faculty evaluations, and other relevant committees.
5. Community Engagement: Participate in the life of the seminary community, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration among faculty, staff, and students. This includes involvement in seminary events, retreats, and other community-building activities.
6. Continuing Education and Training: Engage in continuing education and training for pastors, lay professionals, and laity. This may involve conducting workshops, seminars, and other educational programs to support the broader church community.
7. Technology Utilization: Utilize technology in the classroom and online teaching environments. This includes proficiency with tools such as Zoom for virtual meetings, Canvas (Learning Management System) for course management, and Accordance Bible software for research and study.
8. Residency and Travel: United Lutheran Seminary has campuses in Gettysburg and Philadelphia. Residency can be at either campus, but occasional travel and teaching between the two campuses is expected. This requires flexibility and the ability to manage responsibilities across different locations.
The successful candidate will play a vital role in shaping the next generation of leaders in the Lutheran Church and beyond, contributing to the seminary's mission of forming ministers and scholars who are well-equipped to serve in a diverse and dynamic world.
Applications received prior to September 1st will receive full consideration; however, the search will remain open until the position is filled.
To submit your application, please send a single PDF file which includes a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the contact information for three references to Dr. Leslie Virnelson, Search Committee Chair, at [email protected]. Candidates who advance in the process may be asked for writing samples.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
United Lutheran Seminary is a Reconciling in Christ Seminary and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, marital/familial status, possession of a General Education Development Certificate (GED) as compared to a high school diploma, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sex, age, genetic information or any trait or characteristic protected by any applicable federal, state, or local law or ordinance for participation in any of its educational programs, services, or activities, including admission or employment.
Requirements
Applicants must possess a Ph.D. in New Testament studies, demonstrate proficiency in Greek, and exhibit the ability to teach this language. They should also be able to train students in critical theoretical approaches to biblical studies, with flexibility to specialize in various areas. Candidates should be able to teach students about the New Testament's context within Second Temple Judaism and its Greco-Roman environment. The successful candidate will engage in research and publication in the field of New Testament studies.
A commitment to forming leaders for ministry in an ecumenical context, while respecting ULS's denominational commitments, is essential. Ordination or leadership in the ELCA or a full-communion partner is advantageous. The successful candidate will be expected to offer five courses annually across multiple degree programs, including online, hybrid, and intensive courses.
The candidate will also be responsible for advising students, participating in committee work, engaging in the life of the seminary community, and providing continuing education and training for pastors, lay professionals, and laity. Professors in ELCA seminaries participate in the ordination process for ELCA candidates.
United Lutheran Seminary has campuses in Gettysburg and Philadelphia, with the option for residency at either location. Occasional travel and teaching between the two campuses is expected. Proficiency in utilizing technology for teaching, such as Zoom, Canvas (LMS), and Accordance Bible software, is required.
