Summary:

Fuller Seminary invites applications for one research associate position in the Systematic Theology Department for academic year 2016-2017. (An additional position will be open for 2017-2018.) The associates will take positions of leadership in research of a major research initiative on “Prayer, Love, and Human Nature: Analytic Theology for Theological Formation,” funded by the John Templeton Foundation. The yearlong post will begin on, or shortly after, Sept 1, 2016, and will end on August 31, 2017.

About the Project:

Analytic Theology (AT) is an approach to theology that seeks integration between theological investigation, on the one hand, and the methods and results of progressive and truth-oriented disciplines such as the empirical sciences and analytic philosophy, on the other. This grant takes AT forward by focusing on three Big Questions as case studies to road test the value of analytic theology in a vocational context: prayer, divine love, and the theological implications and engagement of the sciences of human origins. The project hypothesizes that AT provides a rigorous intellectual framework for the training and formation of church leaders. This project will involve weekly seminars, visiting fellows, colloquia events, and a capstone conference, in addition to the research outputs listed below.

Essential Functions:

• Research focused on at least one of the three Big Questions of the grant: prayer, divine love, and human nature and the sciences of human nature and human origins. Indicative research questions might include:
  • What is prayer? Are there standards of prayer, and what might those standards be? What is the relationship between prayer in the Christian tradition, and meditation? What is the meaning of the claim that “God is love”? What is the relationship between God’s love and other divine attributes? What are the practical implications of God’s love for Christian practices and life? What are the implications of the sciences of human nature and human origins for a Christian account of sin and grace? What does it mean to be created in God’s image? What would redeemed human nature look like?

• The writing of a substantive contribution (i.e. monograph), or series of articles (peer-reviewed publication or equivalent), on the topic of analytic theology that falls within the purview of the three Big Questions of the grant, and that will be suitable for publication with a university press or equivalent (e.g. OUP, Eerdmans, Religious Studies, International Journal of Systematic Theology).
• Actively participate, and present at least one paper, at the weekly seminars, including hosting guest speakers.

• Actively participate in the project colloquia and conferences, including potentially presenting.

• Potential travel to represent the project and present papers at a conference

• Assist with every aspect of the project as needed

Knowledge and Skills Required:

• PhD in philosophy, philosophical theology, or systematic theology (or comparable degree)

• Experience writing and publishing scholarly work

• Strong oral and written communication skills

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle projects with deadlines simultaneously and to organize a large range of complex material
• Creativity in problem-solving and trouble-shooting
• Team-player, with a desire to work as part of a large academic project team
• Ability or desire to work in a distinctly Christian office environment
• Ability to work some evenings/weekends for special events

Desirable Qualifications:

• Knowledge of research and project administration preferred, but not required

To apply, candidates should first complete the online application, and must then submit an electronic packet including the following to Allison Wiltshire, at [email protected]

1. A brief statement of your research experience, interests, and goals. Please include your research interests as it pertains to this project.
2. A copy of your CV
3. A research based writing sample
4. Names and contact information for three professional references