Vacant job

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Description of the Research Environment

The postdoctoral position is part of an initiative to further develop a research environment linked to the ongoing interdisciplinary project “Ancient Synagogues and the Human Sensorium”. The project explores the sensory and experiential aspects of ancient synagogues in relation to the broader cultural contexts of the Late Antique Mediterranean world (c. 100–800 CE). This is achieved by using the latest generation of digital tools and techniques in archaeology.

The project aims to develop a two-part research programme. The first part focuses on developing and applying methods for 3D digital modelling, ranging from the collection of digital data from archaeological remains to the creation of 3D reconstructions of these environments. The second part is directed towards integrating the 3D models with other digital tools (e.g. virtual reality, eye-tracking, and motion capture) in order to develop experimental approaches capable of illuminating the sensory environments of ancient synagogues and their affective dimensions. This includes investigating how ancient synagogues evoked emotions, shaped memories, and inspired devotion through their sensory landscapes.

Although ancient synagogues have thus far constituted the project’s primary case studies, the research seeks to expand to include other types of religious buildings as well. In the longer term, the project aims to develop a comparative digital approach to analyzing the sensory dimensions of religions in the Late Antique Mediterranean. Additionally, the project has the ambition to contribute to multiple fields of research by offering a distinctive entry point into broader epistemological questions, such as the significance of human sensory experience for scholarly inquiry and the potential of digital technologies for the visualization and interpretation of ancient religious history.

The postdoctoral position is based at the Centre for Theology and Religious Studies (CTR) and includes collaboration with the Humanities Lab at Lund University (HumLab) and the Digital Archaeology Lab (DARKLab) at the Department of Archaeology and Ancient History.

Tasks and Responsibilities

As the holder of this position, you will primarily develop and conduct research aligned with the objectives of the “Ancient Synagogues and the Human Sensorium” project. The role involves strengthening interdisciplinary collaborations and establishing research connections within Lund University, while also pursuing independent historical research on the senses and sensory experience in religious environments in the Late Antique Mediterranean. In addition, you will organise digital data collection, with the choice of field site determined in dialogue with the project leader, and contribute to 3D modelling work and experimental methods.

The position also entails participation in research seminars at CTR, HumLab, and the Department of Archaeology and Ancient History, as well as actively disseminating the project’s results internationally through conferences, scholarly publications, and public exhibitions. The duties require regular on-site presence.

The position is a career development post, and its purpose is to act as an initial step on a career path by providing the opportunity to deepen and broaden your research expertise. The position also includes some pedagogical training. Teaching, supervision, and other teaching-related duties may also be included in the duties, but up to a maximum of one-fifth of the working time.

Qualifications

The assessment will primarily be based on your research merits and your potential as a researcher. Particular emphasis will be placed on research competence within the subject area.

Qualification Requirements

• Doctoral degree or equivalent international degree in Religious Studies or Archaeology. This requirement must be fulfilled no later than the date on which the employment decision is made, and as an applicant, you are responsible for supplementing your application with documentation that confirms the completed doctoral degree.
• Good ability to develop and carry out high-quality research.
• Teaching skills.
• You have not previously been employed as a postdoc researcher under the existing agreement on fixed-term postdoc employment for more than one year in the same or a related subject area with Lund University.
• Documented education or experience in digital humanities and/or digital archaeology.
• Very good ability to write and speak English.
• Documented knowledge of one or more religions in the Mediterranean region during Late Antiquity.

Terms

The appointment is limited to 3 years and is full time in accordance with the Agreement regarding fixed-term employment as a postdoctoral fellow.

About the Faculty of Humanities and Theology

The Faculty of Humanities and Theology has eight departments and conducts a large and varied operation within research and education. We have about 700 employees and about 4,000 full-year students.

About the Centre for Theology and Religious Studies (CTR)

The Centre for Theology and Religious Studies (CTR) has existed in Lund under various names since the university began its operations in 1668. At CTR, teaching is conducted within the specializations of religious history and religious behavioral science, biblical studies, church and mission studies, as well as faith and worldview studies. Research is conducted in virtually all disciplines of religious studies and theology.

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