Baylor University is seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate to support the mission and vison of the University within the Program for the Future Church (PFFC) to advance grant-funded research and training. This post-doctoral position will engage in and advance research and training at the intersection of congregations, mental health, and leadership development. The Program for the Future Church’s goal through this research and initiative is to expand our capacity to equip and connect Christian leaders to discern their next steps in work and ministry. As detailed in the PFFC’s 2024 Impact Report, four programmatic areas guide this work: Convening, Contextual Research, Collaboration, and Curriculum. This Research Associate will support research and trainings that emerge from two grant-funded initiatives: “The Future Church Project” and “Tapestry of Care: Strengthening Mental Health Provider and Faith Community Partnerships to Bridge Scientific Research and Practice.” Funded by the Lilly Endowment, Inc. and the John Templeton Foundation, these projects are executed in collaboration with partners that include the Mission Waco, the Congregational Collective, and Harvard Medical School. Additional areas of research and resourcing will be identified by our team members, community partners, and through ongoing community-based research. This Associate will work directly with Dr. Dustin D. Benac and faculty affiliated with the initiative.
We are seeking one postdoctoral research associate with expertise and interest in partnering on the analysis, writing, and dissemination of these and related research. Additionally, this position will include opportunities to develop community-based curriculum that equips faith leaders to lead in shifting organizational contexts. This two-year, full-time fellowships will provide rich opportunities to deepen one’s research program, gain expertise in grant management and project development, develop new topical and methodological expertise, forge new collaborations, and advance research and resourcing that engages local faith communities. Pending performance and the availability of funding, this position may be extended to a third year. Although the start dates are flexible, fellowships must begin no later than Fall 2025.
A Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Theology (Ph.D./Th.D.) in fields related to mental health, practical theology, sociology of religion, organizational leadership or related fields is required. [Applicants who are ABD are invited to apply if their degree is conferred by the start of the fellowship]
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