Research/Senior Research Fellow (Historical & Systematic Theology)

Campus Location: Melbourne, Australia

Job No: APTAV119903#006

• Faculty of Theology & Philosophy are looking for 2 x Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow (Historical & Systematic Theology) to join The Institute for Religion & Critical Enquiry
• Join a mission-driven, world-class faculty (QS Ranked 22nd globally/1st in Australia) in educating the next generation of religious educators
• ACU offers 17% employer superannuation, salary packaging and generous leave provisions
• 2 x Full time, continuing roles at our Melbourne campus with some hybrid flexibility

About the role:

Operating within Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry, the Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow (Historical & Systematic Theology) will conduct outstanding research as a member of the Program in Religion and Theology. Their area of speciality will lie broadly within contemporary theologies, with a focus in historical and systematic theologies, and Catholic theologies ecumenically conceived. The Religion and Theology program is home to scholars of historical and systematic theology, philosophical theology, philosophy of religion, Christian spiritualities, Catholic thought and practice, and the Catholic intellectual traditions. Much of our work is interdisciplinary and seeks to connect historical theological traditions and texts with contemporary realities. Examples of our current international research projects include 'Theologies of Catholicity' and 'Art Engaged Theology'. Recently concluded research projects include 'Spiritual Understanding in a Secular Age: Engaging Art as Religious Ritual'; 'Redeeming Autonomy: Agency, Vulnerability, and Relationality'. Our research seminar series in 2026 will explore contemporary theologies of sin and salvation. The Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow (Historical & Systematic Theology) will contribute to the research and teaching profile of the Institute, Faculty, and University. We seek applicants with demonstrable research expertise in both historical and systematic theology broadly conceived, as well as clear ability to put historical theological sources in dialogue with contemporary issues. We also seek candidates with demonstrable teaching expertise and communication skills.

The Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow (Historical & Systematic Theology) will carry out their own research leading to high-quality publications and will be expected to pursue career development in other domains of research activity including supervision of research students, applications for external grant income, and engagement and impact activities. In order to assist the successful applicant in developing a research profile that is competitive for attracting external funding, additional research time will be provided for the first two years of appointment (70% research / 20% teaching / 10% service), with the possibility of additional research time in year 3. Beyond that point, in the absence of other considerations such as external funding, a standard workload mix will apply in line with applicable university policy at that time.

Applicants will work collegially and collaboratively to build their own research and teaching profiles and contribute to team projects within their areas of specialisation and across traditional disciplinary boundaries as appropriate. They will be expected to contribute to the Program's collaborative activities, including seminars, reading groups, and workshops. They will also be expected to contribute to the collegial and scholarly life of the wider Institute and Faculty. The Institute includes scholars of Christian Theology, Early Christianity, Scripture and Religious Studies and we expect that applicants will be motivated to join a community of scholars interested in fostering and sustaining conversations between these different disciplines.

Embedding inclusivity and diversity supports ACU's strategic vision to enable flourishing lives, foster thriving communities, and build an ethical future: we strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups.

For full position details, refer to the position description.

Contact:

General enquiries can be sent to Philip McCosker, Program Director, Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry at: philip.mccosker@acu.edu.au

What we offer:

• The University pursues an excellence agenda and offers an environment where staff are welcomed and safe, and valued through development, participation and involvement.
• Total remuneration valued to $142,635 - $168,220 total rem (pro rata) pa, including salary component $120,529 - $142,305 (pro rata) pa (Academic Level B - Research Fellow), employer contribution to superannuation and annual leave loading.
  Total remuneration valued to $178,414 - $193,705 total rem (pro rata) pa, including salary component $151,018 - $164,087 (pro rata) pa (Academic Level C - Senior Research Fellow), employer contribution to superannuation and annual leave loading.
• 17% employer superannuation contributions to eligible continuing and fixed-term staff.
• Annual leave loading of an equivalent to 17.5% of four weeks' salary pro rata payable, dependent on your commencement date.
• As an ACU staff member, you will have access to generous benefits which include but not limited to: flexible work, study leave, a variety of leave provisions and salary packaging. Find out more information about the benefits or working at ACU here.

How to Apply:

Step 1: Review the Position Description and become familiar with Our Mission and the Application process

Step 2: Click the 'View Position Description and Apply' button, and populate your candidate application details, including your:

• CV (maximum 5 pages).
• responses to the Selection Criteria and Core Competencies in a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) or in the online Declaration and Criteria application page.
• three year research plan* (maximum 2 pages) (*candidates should add their research statement after their covering letter in one document).
• brief online responses to any pre-screening employment questions.

For the successful candidate currently based overseas, ACU will provide support for visa sponsorship.

Applications close: 05-NOV-2025 at 11:59pm AUS Eastern Standard Time

Your Privacy of personal information is maintained in accordance with ACU policy. For more details visit: www.acu.edu.au/careers

ACU is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and enables our people to reach their potential. This is underpinned by our mission and values, grounded in our respect for all people and the advancement of the common good. In line with our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion we welcome candidates from all backgrounds and lived experiences. ACU is recognised as a Veteran Employment Supporter and veterans are encouraged to apply. ACU offers support for candidates that may require adjustments through the recruitment process. Please contact recruitment@acu.edu.au to discuss your requirements in confidence.

About ACU:

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is an inclusive community which welcomes students and staff of all beliefs. ACU has over 2,500 staff supporting more than 34,000 students across eight campuses - Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, North Sydney, Strathfield, Blacktown and Rome.

ACU aspires to be a home for our staff, offer the care of a family and develop an academic and professional community. Whatever your faith or culture, and whether you are academic or professional staff, there are many opportunities both for learning and contributing at ACU.

As valued members of our community, all staff members are expected to have an understanding of ACU's mission and values and to demonstrate an active contribution to them.

ACU does not accept candidate applications submitted by external recruitment agencies through the ACU careers website.

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