Adjunct Lecturer in Religion, Social Movements, and Music

Position
Details
Title Adjunct Lecturer in Religion, Social Movements, and Music
School Harvard Divinity School
Department/Area Position Description The appointed lecturer will design and teach a seminar that explores the dynamic intersections of religion, music, and social movements across diverse historical, cultural, and global contexts. The course may address topics such as music in religious activism and protest traditions; the role of sacred and secular sound in movements for racial, social, and political justice; global devotional performance practices; and the theological, ethical, and affective dimensions of musical expression in collective action.
The instructor will be responsible for all aspects of course development and delivery, including syllabus design, weekly instruction, facilitation of discussion, and evaluation of student work.
Basic Qualifications Applicants should demonstrate the following qualifications:
Ph.D. in Religion, Theology, Ethnomusicology, or a related field (completed by the time of appointment)
Demonstrated scholarly engagement with religion and culture, with a focus on music and/or social movements
Additional Qualifications Prior teaching experience at the graduate level or in professional schools
Evidence of excellence in teaching and mentorship
Ability to engage religious diversity and interdisciplinary perspectives
Global or comparative approach strongly preferred
Special Instructions Please also submit the following materials with your application:
A cover letter describing research and teaching interests
Curriculum vitae
A 1-2 page course proposal for Religion, Social Movements, and Music
A teaching statement and evidence of teaching effectiveness (e.g., course evaluations), if available
Contact information for two academic references
The application portal will close on June 15, 2026.
Please note, if visa sponsorship is needed, Harvard retains the discretion to determine which visa status is appropriate and whether a visa sponsorship application will ultimately be submitted, including payment of any applicable fees.
Contact Information Applicants may contact the Office for Academic Affairs at Harvard Divinity School with any questions regarding the position.
Contact Email academicaffairs@hds.harvard.edu
Salary Range $11,500
This is a part-time, non-benefits-eligible appointment for the Fall 2026 semester. Compensation is commensurate with experience and consistent with Harvard Divinity School policies.
Minimum Number of References Required 2
Maximum Number of References Allowed 2
Keywords EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (•).
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
Curriculum Vitae
Cover Letter
Statement of Teaching Philosophy
Proposed Course Description
Optional Documents
Course Evaluation