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- Tasks: Lead research and teaching in Japanese Buddhism, shaping future scholars and engaging with contemporary issues.
- Company: SOAS University of London, a leading institution for Asian and African studies.
- Benefits: 44 days holiday, flexible working, research stipend, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in Buddhist Studies while enjoying a supportive and dynamic work environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in Buddhist Studies or related field, fluent in Japanese, and strong teaching skills.
- Other info: Encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds to enrich our academic community.
The predicted salary is between 52700 - 61900 £ per year.
Department: School of History, Religions and Philosophies
Contract Type: Permanent
Grade: 9
Salary: £62,738.57 - £71,981.57 Inclusive of London Zone Allowance
Location: Bloomsbury, London
Hours: 35 hours a week
SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East. SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity.
About The Role
The Department of History, Religions and Philosophies seeks to appoint a Numata Chair (Reader or Professor) in Japanese Buddhism. This is a senior academic appointment supported by Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai (BDK), intended to strengthen research-led teaching in Japanese Buddhism within a global and comparative framework. The successful candidate will play a leading role in advancing scholarship, teaching, and public engagement in Buddhist Studies broadly construed, with particular emphasis on Japanese Buddhist traditions in the broader context of East Asian Buddhism and the ability to teach across East Asian religious and philosophical traditions, Buddhist text and history and/or Buddhism in relation to contemporary issues.
The successful candidate should be fluent in the Japanese language. They will lead the MA Buddhist Studies programme and contribute significantly to the Centre of Buddhist Studies. The postholder will design and redesign UG and PG modules such as Japanese Buddhist Thought and Religious Practices in Japan, supervise UG, PGT and PGR students, and contribute to the administration of the School. The successful candidate must have a PhD in Buddhist Studies, Japanese Religions and/or Philosophy, Religious Studies, or a closely related field. They should be able to demonstrate a specialist knowledge of Japanese Buddhism and broader East Asian Buddhist Thought and a fair commitment to bringing that knowledge in conversation with global and contemporary issues.
About The Department
Our degree programmes, research and public engagement cover the rich histories, religious and philosophical traditions of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. We are unique for being the original and path-breaking UK higher education institution that specialises in teaching and researching history, religion, and philosophy in a critical, global, decolonial, and interdisciplinary manner. We have also led and continue to lead the world in research and education provision that makes sense of history, religion, and philosophy in a transformative way that counters essentially Western-centric and Eurocentric disciplinary models. We are the principal intellectual home of scholarly efforts that explore in-depth the dynamic and interconnected histories, religions, and philosophies of the world.
What We Offer
- Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 6 closure days over Christmas and Easter).
- Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
- Annual Research Stipend: The Numata Chair will have a modest stipend annually to support the candidate's research and public engagement.
- Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future.
- Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
- Health and Well-being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
- Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
- Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.
We would particularly welcome applications from candidates from working class, first generation Higher Education, Black, Asian, other minority ethnic and underrepresented groups from within the UK and beyond. All appointment decisions will be made on merit, following a fair and competitive process.
Interviews to be held: Week Commencing May 25th 2026
Use of AI
While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.
Further information
Successful candidates will need to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK or have limited leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with SOAS, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. We are able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK. If you have any questions or require any assistance with regard to the application process, please contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS.
For information on how and why SOAS processes personal data about its job applicants, please read our Job Applicant Notice.
Reader/Professor of Japanese Buddhism in Camden Town employer: SOAS University of London
Contact Detail:
SOAS University of London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reader/Professor of Japanese Buddhism in Camden Town
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to colleagues, professors, or anyone in the field of Japanese Buddhism. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into current trends in Buddhist studies. Show your passion and knowledge about Japanese Buddhism and how it connects to global issues. We want to see that spark!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job alerts! Regularly check our website for openings and apply directly. It shows initiative and keeps you ahead of the game.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your interview skills with friends or mentors. Get comfortable discussing your research and teaching philosophy. The more you rehearse, the more confident you'll feel when it counts!
We think you need these skills to ace Reader/Professor of Japanese Buddhism in Camden Town
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role. We want to see your passion for Japanese Buddhism and how you can contribute to our department's goals.
Showcase Your Research: Don’t hold back on sharing your research interests and achievements! We’re looking for someone who can advance scholarship in Buddhist Studies, so let us know what you've done and what you're excited about.
Be Authentic: While it’s tempting to use AI tools, we value your unique voice. Make sure your application reflects your personality and genuine interest in the position. We want to get to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and is considered promptly.
How to prepare for a job interview at SOAS University of London
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a deep understanding of Japanese Buddhism and its broader context. Brush up on key texts, historical figures, and contemporary issues in the field. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your passion for the subject.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Prepare to discuss your teaching philosophy and methods. Think about how you would design and redesign modules like 'Japanese Buddhist Thought' and how you can engage students effectively. Be ready to share examples of your past teaching experiences and how they’ve shaped your approach.
✨Engage with Current Trends
Familiarise yourself with current trends in Buddhist studies and how they relate to global issues. This could include discussions on decolonial approaches or the role of Buddhism in contemporary society. Being able to connect your expertise to these themes will demonstrate your relevance in the field.
✨Practice Your Japanese
Since fluency in Japanese is a must, make sure you’re comfortable discussing complex topics in the language. You might be asked to explain concepts or texts in Japanese during the interview, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.