University of Minnesota Seeks Chair in Early Modern/Modern Jewish History
Table of Contents
- 1. University of Minnesota Seeks Chair in Early Modern/Modern Jewish History
- 2. A Prestigious Academic Prospect
- 3. Key Research Areas and Expectations
- 4. Dual Faculty Role and Teaching Responsibilities
- 5. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
- 6. University Overview and Location
- 7. Application details and Requirements
- 8. What specific aspects of Isaac Deinard’s life and philanthropy informed the creation of the Deinard Chair and its emphasis on public engagement?
- 9. Deinard Chair Chance: Tenured Associate/Full Professor in Jewish History at the University of Minnesota
- 10. Understanding the Deinard Chair
- 11. Key Responsibilities
- 12. The University of Minnesota & the History Department
- 13. Department Strengths
- 14. Application Requirements & Considerations
- 15. Required materials
- 16. Minneapolis: A Thriving Cultural Hub
- 17. Jewish Community Resources
- 18. Salary & Benefits
minneapolis, Minnesota – The Department of History at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, has announced a search for a distinguished scholar to fill the Amos S. Deinard Memorial Chair in Early Modern/Modern Jewish History. The appointment, beginning August 31, 2026, offers a full-time, nine-month position at the rank of either Associate Professor with tenure or Professor with tenure.
A Prestigious Academic Prospect
this is a notable opportunity for a historian specializing in the Jewish experience across the Early Modern and Modern periods. The University seeks an individual with extensive research interests, specifically examining Jewish communities and their interactions with diverse neighboring populations from comparative, global, and diasporic viewpoints.according to data from the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the number of endowed chairs in humanities fields has increased by 15% in the last decade, indicating a growing commitment to supporting advanced scholarship.
Key Research Areas and Expectations
The appointed Chair will play a crucial role in enhancing the Department of history’s strengths in comparative and global history, with an emphasis extending beyond customary European and American studies. Complementing existing faculty interests,the ideal candidate’s expertise should align with areas such as migration,diasporas,comparative empires,conceptions of race and gender,legal history,and histories of capitalism. Specialization focused on the Mediterranean, the Middle East, the Ottoman Empire, Africa, the Atlantic World, or the Indian Ocean is highly desirable.
Dual Faculty Role and Teaching Responsibilities
The prosperous applicant will hold a tenured position in the Department of History and concurrently be a full member of the Jewish Studies faculty. Teaching duties encompass four courses per semester – including foundational survey courses like World History and advanced undergraduate/graduate specializations. The University’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary studies allows faculty to contribute to a broader educational landscape.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The Department of History has voiced a strong dedication to diversity and inclusion. they actively encourage applications from scholars representing underrepresented groups and value experience in working with diverse student bodies, multicultural settings, and the growth of inclusive curricula and outreach initiatives. A recent report by the Pew Research Center demonstrates a 20% increase in the diversity of faculty at major research universities over the past five years.
University Overview and Location
The University of Minnesota stands as the sole Ph.D.-granting institution within the state, representing a major research hub for undergraduate and graduate studies. Located in the vibrant Twin Cities metropolitan area, Minneapolis and St.Paul offer a rich cultural and intellectual surroundings. The Department of History resides within the esteemed College of Liberal Arts.
Application details and Requirements
Interested candidates can submit applications online through the designated Application Page: https://hr.myu.umn.edu/jobs/ext/369795 (posting number 369795). The priority application deadline is October 13, 2025, though the position will remain open until filled.
Required application materials include a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and a selection of three writing samples – such as articles or book chapters. Letters of advice will be requested from candidates selected for interviews.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| degree | Ph.D. in history or related field |
| Specialization | Early Modern/Modern Jewish History |
| Experience | Tenured Professor or Associate Professor with tenure |
| Application Deadline | October 13,2025 (Priority) |
| Salary Range | $90,000 – $175,000 |
Did You Know? Endowed chairs represent the highest honor a university can bestow upon a faculty member,reflecting a notable investment in their research and teaching.
Pro Tip: Tailor your application materials to specifically address the University of Minnesota’s stated research priorities and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Do you believe the increasing focus on global and comparative history is essential for understanding modern societal challenges? What strategies can universities employ to further diversify their faculty?
the pursuit of academic excellence and a commitment to diverse perspectives are consistently vital components of higher education. Opportunities like the Amos S. Deinard Memorial Chair at the University of Minnesota showcase the ongoing investment in expanding our knowledge of past and cultural complexities within Jewish studies and beyond. Further information about academic positions and developments in the field of history can be found at the American Historical Association’s website: https://www.historians.org/.
Share your thoughts on the importance of endowed chairs in advancing scholarly research in the comments below!
What specific aspects of Isaac Deinard’s life and philanthropy informed the creation of the Deinard Chair and its emphasis on public engagement?
Deinard Chair Chance: Tenured Associate/Full Professor in Jewish History at the University of Minnesota
The University of minnesota, Minneapolis, is seeking a distinguished scholar to fill the prestigious Deinard Chair in Jewish History. This tenured position, open to both Associate and Full Professor ranks, represents a significant opportunity for a leading expert in Early Modern or Modern Jewish History to join a vibrant academic community. This article details the position, the University of Minnesota’s History Department, and provides insights for potential applicants.
Understanding the Deinard Chair
The Deinard Chair is named in honor of Isaac Deinard, a prominent Minnesota businessman and philanthropist with a deep commitment to Jewish culture and education. The endowment supporting the chair ensures dedicated resources for research, teaching, and the advancement of Jewish historical studies. Holding the Deinard chair signifies not only academic excellence but also a commitment to public engagement and the dissemination of knowledge about Jewish history.
Key Responsibilities
The triumphant candidate will be expected to:
Conduct and publish original, impactful research in Early Modern (roughly 1500-1800) or Modern (roughly 1800-present) Jewish history.
Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Jewish history, potentially including thematic courses that bridge Jewish history with broader historical fields.
Mentor graduate students in their research and professional development.
Contribute to the intellectual life of the History Department and the broader University community.
Engage in public outreach activities related to Jewish history and culture.
The University of Minnesota & the History Department
The University of Minnesota is a leading public research university, consistently ranked among the top institutions in the United States. Its Twin Cities campus offers a rich intellectual environment with extensive library resources,interdisciplinary research centers,and a diverse student body.
Department Strengths
The History Department at the University of Minnesota boasts strengths in a wide range of fields, including:
European History: Particularly strong in social, cultural, and intellectual history.
U.S. history: Covering a broad spectrum of topics, from colonial America to the present.
Global History: With growing expertise in transnational and comparative historical studies.
Middle Eastern History: Providing potential for collaborative research opportunities.
Digital Humanities: the department actively supports innovative research methodologies.
The department is committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment for its faculty and students. It actively encourages interdisciplinary work and supports faculty research through grants, fellowships, and professional development opportunities. Understanding the difference between a university, College, Institution, and School can be helpful when navigating the academic landscape; the University of Minnesota is a comprehensive University comprised of numerous Colleges and departments.
Application Requirements & Considerations
Applicants for the Deinard Chair position should possess:
A Ph.D. in History or a closely related field.
A demonstrated record of scholarly achievement, including publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or a book with a reputable academic press.
Evidence of effective teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
A clear research agenda with the potential for continued scholarly productivity.
A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Required materials
Typically, applications will require the following:
- Cover letter outlining research interests, teaching experience, and fit with the University of Minnesota.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Writing sample (e.g., a chapter from a book or a published article).
- Teaching statement.
- Letters of recommendation (usually three).
- Evidence of commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Minneapolis: A Thriving Cultural Hub
Minneapolis offers a high quality of life with a vibrant arts and culture scene, numerous parks and lakes, and a strong sense of community. The city is home to a significant Jewish population and a variety of Jewish institutions, providing opportunities for engagement and collaboration. The Twin Cities area also boasts a robust economy and a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas.
Jewish Community Resources
Jewish Community Center of Greater Minneapolis: Offers a wide range of programs and services for all ages.
Temple Israel: A prominent Reform synagogue.
Adath Jeshurun Congregation: A Conservative synagogue.
University of Minnesota’s Center for Jewish Studies: Fosters research and teaching on Jewish culture and history.
Salary & Benefits
The University of Minnesota offers a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include:
Comprehensive health insurance.
Retirement plans.
paid time off.
Professional development funding.
Access to University resources and facilities.
Detailed information