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Lumen Christi Institute Postdoctoral Fellowship in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition
The Lumen Christi Institute invites applications for two postdoctoral fellowships. The program offers funding to support the research and professional development of exceptional scholars in Catholic studies. The specific field of study is open and may include – but is not limited to – art and visual culture, bioethics and biotechnology, economics, history, law, literature, philosophy, politics, religious studies, sociology, and theology. In addition to pursuing a robust research agenda, the successful candidate will participate regularly in the life and activities of the Lumen Christi Institute, including opportunities for public engagement. The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of renewal for a third year.
The mission of the Lumen Christi Institute is to make the Catholic intellectual tradition a vital part of the secular university. Founded in 1997 by Catholic scholars at the University of Chicago, the Institute’s lectures, seminars, conferences, and non-credit courses support a dialogue between the University and the Catholic tradition. The Institute has enjoyed a close relationship with the University of Chicago since its inception and continues to offer dozens of events for the campus community every year, often in partnership with university departments and programs.
The Lumen Christi Institute offers an expansive vision of the intellectual life. Inspired by John Henry Newman’s insight that “all knowledge forms one whole,” the Institute prioritizes broad questions that bring scholars from different backgrounds into conversation. The Institute also follows Newman’s view that the Church is necessary for the integrity of the university. Accordingly, Lumen Christi programs promote Christian wisdom within scholarly conversations, drawing on the Catholic tradition as an anchor and springboard for the study of multiple academic fields.
Fellows will be selected by a committee of senior scholars from the University of Chicago and peer institutions. Applicants will be evaluated on the significance of the proposed research, the quality of the applicant’s record, and the potential of the candidate to enrich higher education through research and teaching in the Catholic intellectual tradition. Renewal beyond the first year is contingent upon satisfactory performance. The successful candidates will have a faculty mentor and office space. The salary for 2024-25 is $70,000, less any deductions required by federal, state, or institute regulations. It is a full-time position, including a full range of benefits (medical, dental, vision). In addition, fellows are eligible for $5,000 per year in professional development funds. The position requires residence in Chicago or its immediate vicinity.
Applicants must have received the Ph.D. no earlier than January 2022.
Ph.D. candidates will be considered and must complete the Ph.D. by the date of appointment (July 1, 2025).
Applicants will be required to submit an online application form including:
- A cover letter, detailing their qualifications for the fellowship and explaining how a position at the Lumen Christi Institute fits into their plans
- A curriculum vitae
- A research statement
- A writing sample
- Three letter(s) of recommendation
All application materials should be submitted via the online application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Application review will begin November 20 and continue until positions are filled.
The Lumen Christi Fellows are selected from students at the University of Chicago and other area universities. Fellows demonstrate an interest in the Catholic intellectual tradition and in sharing community with peers. They receive invitations to private events, dinners, and seminars, while committing to reasonable participation in Lumen Christi programs. Fellows are invited to focus on key areas relevant to their interests: Scripture, Theology and Philosophy, Political Thought, Science and Religion, Catholic Literature and Culture, the University and Liberal Education. The Fellows’ leadership team coordinates with Lumen Christi staff on vision and programming. Interested students are encouraged to apply.
Direct any further questions to Michael Le Chevallier.