Lecturer in Study of Religion

About the role 

Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting for a permanent, full-time Lecturer in our Study of Religion Programme. The Programme aims to recruit a scholar-teacher who will complement the current staff’s expertise. The successful candidate will have a PhD in a relevant field, demonstrated excellence in teaching, a developing research profile, and clear commitment to public engagement.

Teaching responsibilities include contributing to undergraduate courses across contemporary themes in religious studies. The successful applicant will supervise MA and PhD research on a broad range of topics, including research on religion in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The Study of Religion Programme has an outstanding record and reputation in its teaching, research, and public engagement. It has a strong collegial culture which actively supports early-career academics. We are committed to greater equity and diversity and to supporting research and teaching that upholds our responsibilities to te Tiriti o Waitangi.

About you

You will be a collaborative, and adaptable colleague who will provide teaching excellence in a busy and dynamic Programme. You will be a highly motivated forward-thinker who demonstrates a capacity for high quality and innovative teaching and research in your specialist field. 
You will thrive in this role because you have the capacity to build and maintain positive relationships with staff, a passion for teaching and mentoring students at all levels of their university study, and a commitment to the forms of academic administration that can enhance the effectiveness of the work that staff perform and the related outcomes. 

Key requirements:

• A PhD in the Study of Religion or a relevant field.
• Evidence of successful teaching and course development in relevant subjects.
• An existing record of published academic research and/or a developing research profile.
• The capacity to provide academic mentoring and related pastoral care to diverse cohorts of undergraduate and postgraduate students.
• A commitment to building positive and supportive relationships with colleagues.
• The capacity to work as part of a team as well as having individual responsibilities.  

Role description: Click here to see further information, including salary details.

Close date for vacancy: 20 March 2026

If you have any questions regarding this role, please get in touch with Associate Professor, Philip Fountain (philip.fountain@vuw.ac.nz)

How to apply: Please click on the 'Apply' button above. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we may progress with suitable applicants prior to the application closing date. Applications from recruitment agencies are not accepted.

Why you should join our team 

Embark on an intellectual adventure at Te Kura Mahinga Tangata - School of Social and Cultural Studies. Here, you’ll ignite change with your expertise in Criminology, Sociology, and Anthropology. Be the catalyst in a vibrant community eager to unravel and redefine the social and cultural fabric of our world. Your journey to influence society starts now!

About our University

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.

Explore the many benefits of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in our strategic direction and learn more about our research expertise.

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