University Lectureship in Aramaic Studies (0,5 fte)
The Faculty of Humanities at Leiden University invites applications for a part-time (0.5 fte) University Lectureship in Aramaic Studies , with a focus on the study of Aramaic language varieties before the 5th century CE.
What you will do
The University Lecturer will be expected to contribute to the advancement of Hebrew and Aramaic Studies at Leiden University. The position complements, connects and leverages existing teaching and research expertise in Semitic languages and linguistics, Ancient Near Eastern Studies, and Classics at Leiden University. Administratively, the position will be shared between the two research institutes, the Leiden Institute for Area Studies (LIAS) and the Leiden University Centre for Linguistics (LUCL).
The successful candidate will pursue and develop innovative research on relevant topics on Aramaic texts, language, linguistics and cultures, with a focus on the first millennium BCE until c. the fifth century CE. They will contribute to teaching and thesis supervision in the BA Ancient Near Eastern Studies and the (Res)MA Classics and Ancient Civilizations, and possibly in other programmes staffed by LIAS and/or LUCL, depending on the candidate’s expertise.
Key responsibilities
- Undertaking innovative research on Aramaic texts, language, linguistics and cultures that creates synergies with research initiatives on the cultures of the Middle East in antiquity and Semitic Studies at LIAS and LUCL;
- Designing and delivering research-informed teaching at the BA, MA and ResMA levels, linked to Aramaic languages, corpora, linguistics and cultures;
- Supervising BA, MA and ResMA theses, including on topics outside their primary research expertise and on relevant theories and methods;
- Co-supervising PhD research;
- Cooperating with other faculty in curriculum development, teaching, course and programme evaluations;
- participating in regular meetings of the teaching programmes; taking up administrative tasks within these programmes and / or the LIAS and LUCL;
- contributing actively to the academic and social environment of LIAS and LUCL and their teaching programmes.
Where you will work
Key requirements
- A PhD degree in Aramaic Studies with a focus on philological/linguistic methodologies (candidates near completion may be considered);
- Proven didactic qualities and demonstrable teaching experience on topics and themes relevant to this position;
- A research and publication record in Aramaic Studies commensurate with career stage;
- Excellent command of Classical Hebrew; applicants who are able to work on material in additional languages of the ancient Eastern Mediterranean are encouraged to apply;
- A compelling vision for the development of Aramaic Studies within the context of Hebrew and Aramaic Studies at Leiden University;
- Excellent social and teamwork skills and the ambition and ability to work constructively in an international and interdisciplinary academic environment towards implementing this vision;
- Excellent command of Dutch and English; applicants are expected to teach and write in Dutch and English (near-native proficiency; C2 level);
What we offer
We offer:
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An employment contract for the duration of one year with a view to permanent employment. This contract falls under the CLA of Dutch Universities;
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A salary between €4728 - €6433 gross per month, based on a full-time appointment (38 hours) (Scale 11);
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A holiday allowance (8%), an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), and an attractive pension scheme at ABP;
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Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs for home-to-work travel;
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Flexible working hours; as a standard, you are entitled to a minimum of 29 leave days on the basis of a full-time working week of 38 hours;
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If your work allows it, hybrid working is possible within the Netherlands;
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A home-working allowance (day and internet allowance) and attention for good workplaces. The University will also provide you with a laptop.
What we value
Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. We strive to be an open community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to fully develop themselves. We consider an inclusive academic environment, where students and staff can share their experiences and viewpoints, to be essential for the development of talent.
Want to apply or find out more?
Please ensure that you include the following documents in a single PDF document named ‘FAMILY NAME – Given name – vacancy number and in the following order:
- A letter of motivation including a personal vision for the development and positioning of Aramaic Studies at Leiden;
- A CV including education and employment history, publications, and courses taught to date and planned;
- A research statement and agenda demonstrating the applicant’s ambition actively to contribute and to complement the research culture in the Ancient Near Eastern Studies section within the LIAS and LUCL (max. 2 pages).
- A teaching statement that explains the candidate’s pedagogic philosophy and approach (1 page).
- A sample of a detailed course description (intro + outline of 12 two-hour weekly sessions) on a topic of choice within the field of Hebrew and Aramaic Studies, aimed at students of the (Res)MA in Classics and Ancient Civilizations at the Leiden.
- A sample of a detailed course description previously used by the applicant in academic teaching, aimed at BA or (Res)MA students of Hebrew Studies, Aramaic Studies or closely related fields.
- Names, positions, and e-mail addresses of three referees (no reference letters at this point).
The interviews with shortlisted candidates are tentatively scheduled for May 2026
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In choosing between candidates, in case of equal suitability, preference will be given to internal candidates, women, the occupationally disabled and employees with a migration background.
- You live and are officially registered as resident in The Netherlands or are willing to relocate upon starting the position.
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A pre-employment screening (references, diplomas, certificate of good conduct (VOG)) may be part of the selection procedure.
- Leiden University expects faculty members to obtain the Basic Teaching Qualification (BKO). If the new employee does not yet hold this qualification or its equivalent, they must be willing to obtain it within two years.
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Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated. If you nevertheless choose to send us CVs, no rights can be derived from this. #LI-Hybrid