Assistant Director, Institute for the Study of Humanistic Buddhism (Visiting Assistant Professor, Religious Studies)

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Assistant Director, Institute for the Study of Humanistic Buddhism (Visiting Assistant Professor, Religious Studies) Assistant Director, Institute for the Study of Humanistic Buddhism (Visiting Assistant Professor, Religious Studies) Founded in 1991, today the University of the West (UWest ) is a liberal arts university accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and committed to providing a whole-person education in a context informed by Buddhist wisdom and values. The goal of UWest is to foster understanding and appreciation of the dynamic intellectual and economic relationship between the East and the West. UWest offers academic programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and the doctorate degree level. University of the West, located in the city of Rosemead, Los Angeles County, California, is looking for an Assistant Director, Visiting Assistant Professor, Religious Studies. This is a one (1) year temporary position, with the possibility of renewal depending on funding. Job Summary: The Institute for the Study of Humanistic Buddhist at University of the West is devoted to the multidisciplinary study of Humanistic Buddhism and Fo Guang Shan within a global religious context. Venerable Master Hsing Yun established his visionary brand of Chinese Mahayana Buddhism (“Humanistic Buddhism”) and founded the Fo Guang Shan Monastery in 1967. In its brief fifty-year history, Fo Guang Shan has developed into a global Buddhist social movement with temples, lay organizations, publishing centers, and schools and universities around the world. The Institute seeks to encourage scholarly research and enhance understanding of Humanistic Buddhism and Fo Guang Shan through projects, resource sharing, symposia, lectures, scholarship support, and publications. Job Duties and Responsibilities: The Assistant Director (AD) will report directly to the Director of the ISHB Responsible for (co-)directing project research teams and coordinating events hosted by the Institute. Assist the Director in the day-to-day administration of the Institute--including budget management, public relations, and outreach. Teach three (3) courses over the academic year (or the equivalent) for the Department of Religious Studies and will hold a courtesy appointment as Visiting Assistant Professor in the department. Qualifications: Doctor of Philosophy degree in Religious Studies (at the start of the position) required. Demonstrated sound understanding of research methodologies in the discipline of religious studies/Buddhist studies. Demonstrated research background in the area of contemporary Buddhism, global Buddhist movements, and/or Humanistic Buddhism is preferred. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: Excellent research, writing and administrative skills. Competency in Microsoft Word and Excel is required. Proficiency is Mandarin (writing and speaking). Familiarity with web-based Google applications is desirable. To be considered for the position, in addition to the formal UWest Employment Application, please include: (1) letter outlining your background and qualifications for the position; (2) list of 3 references, and; (3) current CV. University of the West, Human Resources 1409 Walnut Grove Avenue, Rosemead, California 91770 Fax: 626-656-2140; or Email [email protected] .
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