Postdoctoral Researcher in Artificial Intelligence and Religion

Title Postdoctoral Researcher in Artificial Intelligence and Religion
School Harvard Divinity School
Department/Area Artificial Intelligence and Religion
Description We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Artificial Intelligence and Religion based at Harvard Divinity School (HDS). This interdisciplinary position explores how contemporary AI systems interact with religious thought, practice, ethics, institutions, and communities. The postdoc will conduct independent and collaborative research at the intersection of AI, theology, religious studies, ethics, and social analysis, contributing to both academic scholarship and broader public conversations; collaborations will take place with faculty, researchers, students and senior administration colleagues.
This position is ideal for a scholar with advanced research interests focused on how AI reshapes concepts such as authority, agency, personhood, moral reasoning, ritual, interpretation, and meaning across religious traditions, as well as how religious worldviews inform the design, governance, and ethical evaluation of AI technologies.
This position is a full-time postdoctoral appointment, one-year term (Academic Year 2026-27) with possibility for renewal.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct and publish original research at the intersection of AI and religion.
Be an active member of the scholarly community at Harvard Divinity School, including contributing to relevant conferences, seminars, workshops, and lectures. Work with existing HDS committees related to AI.
Lead AI workshop(s) for HDS faculty and/or students
Develop collaborative relationships with faculty and researchers across Harvard schools and engage substantively with research communities at the Kempner Institute for the Study of Natural and Artificial Intelligence and the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society.
Mentor graduate students when appropriate.
Contribute to public-facing outputs (policy briefs, essays, blog posts, media engagement, or public lectures),
Complete a semesterly report to the Dean about activities
Research Areas of Interest (Illustrative, Not Exhaustive)
Ethical, theological, philosophical or social scientific analyses of AI systems
Religious interpretations of intelligence, consciousness, agency, or creativity
AI and religious authority, leadership, or governance
Algorithmic bias, justice, and religious communities
AI in ritual, worship, education, or pastoral contexts
Comparative or cross-traditional perspectives on technology and religion
Historical religious responses to emerging technologies and their relevance to AI
AI, spirituality, meaning-making, and human identity
The postdoctoral researcher will be based at Harvard Divinity School and includes regular interaction with scholars in theology, religious studies, computer science, philosophy, ethics, law, social science, and public policy.
This role is offered as a hybrid (some combination of onsite and remote), full-time position, w you are required to be onsite at our Cambridge, MA based campus. Specific days and schedule will be determined between you and your manager. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
The postdoc will participate in seminars, workshops, and collaborative initiatives at Harvard Divinity School and will be encouraged to cultivate research relationships across the University. This environment is committed to intellectual rigor, inclusivity, and public engagement, and offers a unique opportunity to shape an emerging field at the intersection of AI and religion.
Basic Qualifications Applicants should demonstrate the following qualifications:
PhD in Religious Studies, Theology, Philosophy, Ethics, Sociology, Anthropology, Science and Technology Studies, Computer Science (with relevant humanities focus), or a closely related field, completed by the start date.
Demonstrated research interest in AI and religion or closely related topics.
Strong publication record or clear potential for high-quality scholarly output.
Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary environments.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Harvard Divinity School does not provide visa sponsorship for adjunct teaching positions. Please note that attorneys representing individuals are not authorized to file visa petitions on behalf of Harvard Divinity School.
Additional Qualifications Applicants should also demonstrate the following qualifications:
Experience collaborating across technical and humanities disciplines.
Familiarity with contemporary AI systems (e.g., machine learning, generative models) at a conceptual or applied level.
Experience with qualitative or mixed research methods (e.g., ethnography, interviews, discourse analysis).
Interest in public scholarship, policy engagement, or industry dialogue.
Teaching experience in relevant subject areas.
Special Instructions Please also submit the following materials with your application:
(1) Curriculum Vitae
(2) Application letter
(3) List of 3 references
(4) Writing sample
Contact Information Applicants may contact the Office for Academic Affairs at Harvard Divinity School with any questions regarding the position.
Contact Email academicaffairshds.harvard
Salary Range $70,000-$80,000
Minimum Number of References Required 3
Maximum Number of References Allowed 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.