Postdoctoral Researcher – MANTRAMS Project (x2)
University of Oxford
Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
General Description
The University of Oxford is inviting applications for two Postdoctoral Researcher positions as part of the interdisciplinary research project “Mantras in Religion, Media, and Society in Global Southern Asia (MANTRAMS).” The posts are based at the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at 1 Pusey Lane, Oxford. The project is funded by a Synergy Grant from the European Research Council and is led by Dr Finn Moore Gerety.
The successful candidates will contribute to the MANTRAMS project by conducting original scholarly research on mantras in early South Asian religious traditions. The project examines the role of mantras across religious practices, media forms, and social contexts within Global Southern Asia. Researchers will explore the historical, textual, and cultural significance of mantras, including their representation in ritual traditions and religious literature.
Postholders will undertake independent research within the scope of the project and contribute to the broader objectives of the research team. Responsibilities include authoring academic publications, producing high-quality scholarly outputs, and collaborating with colleagues within the project consortium. The researchers will also assist with organizing project workshops and scholarly events, as well as contributing to the editing of collective project publications.
The positions are full-time, fixed-term appointments for three years. The roles are expected to commence around late April 2025 and will be based in central Oxford as part of the collaborative MANTRAMS research team. Interviews for shortlisted candidates are expected to take place around April 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must hold, or be close to completing, a doctoral degree in a relevant academic discipline related to the study of religion, Indology, Asian studies, or related humanities fields. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in Sanskrit and relevant textual traditions and possess a strong research background related to South Asian religions or the historical study of mantras. Applicants must also show evidence of the ability to conduct independent academic research and produce high-quality scholarly writing.
Required expertise/skills
Expertise in Sanskrit, including Vedic Sanskrit and Classical Sanskrit
Strong background in Indology, South Asian religious traditions, or the history of religions
Demonstrated ability to conduct innovative research and produce independent scholarly publications
Experience in academic writing, editing, and preparation of research outputs
Ability to collaborate in an interdisciplinary research environment
Strong written and oral communication skills for academic presentations and publications
Capacity to contribute to research events, workshops, and collaborative publications
Ability to manage research activities independently and contribute ideas for future research projects and funding opportunities
Salary details
£38,674 – £46,913 per year (Research Grade 7)
Application Deadline
10 March 2025 (12:00 noon)