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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 leader in 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 and fluency in Japanese required.
- Other info: Encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds to enrich our academic community.
The predicted salary is between 62738 - 71982 £ per year.
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 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. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.
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.
The successful candidate 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. The candidate should be fluent in the Japanese language.
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) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
- 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.
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.
Reader/Professor of Japanese Buddhism 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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to colleagues, professors, or anyone in your field. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the institution and its values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your teaching demo or presentation skills. If you're applying for an academic role, being able to engage and inspire is key. Get feedback from peers to polish your delivery.
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Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Reader/Professor of Japanese Buddhism
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Expertise: Make sure to highlight your specialist knowledge in Japanese Buddhism and related fields. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your academic achievements and research interests!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this specific role. Mention how your skills and experiences relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position.
Be Authentic: While it’s tempting to use AI tools, we value your unique voice and perspective. Make sure your application reflects who you are and what you bring to the table. Authenticity goes a long way in making a memorable impression!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered in the selection process. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
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 context within East Asian traditions. 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.
✨Engage with the Department's Vision
Familiarise yourself with SOAS's strategic plan and how it aims to reimagine higher education. Be prepared to discuss how your research and teaching align with their goals, especially regarding student responsiveness and global challenges. This shows that you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to the institution's mission.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the department, its future direction, and how you can contribute. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Philosophy
As you'll be leading the MA Buddhist Studies programme, be ready to articulate your teaching philosophy. Discuss how you engage students, incorporate diverse perspectives, and adapt to different learning styles. Highlight any innovative teaching methods you've used in the past to make your approach stand out.