Teaching Specialist/Lecturer

The Department of Classical and Near Eastern Religions and Cultures (CNRC) and the Center for Jewish Studies seeks applicants for a part-time, temporary Teaching Specialist or Lecturer (9754 or 9753) position to teach Modern Hebrew for the 2026-27 academic year. Duties include teaching undergraduate students in assigned course(s), holding office hours to assist and advise students, and participating in department meetings. Courses that will be taught are:

Fall 2026:

HEBR 1001/4001 - Beginning Modern Hebrew 1, M-F 9:05-9:55

HEBR 3011/4011 - Intermediate Modern Hebrew 1, M-F 10:10-11:00

Spring 2027:

HEBR 1002/4002 - Beginning Modern Hebrew 2, M-F 9:05-9:55

HEBR 3012/4012 - Intermediate Modern Hebrew 2, M-F 9:05-9:55

CNRC 3515 - Multiculturalism in Israel, T/Th 2:30-3:45

Required Qualifications:

• MA (or foreign equivalent) in Hebrew literature, Hebrew instruction/pedagogy, or cognate fields
• Native or near native fluency in Modern Hebrew
• Solid understanding of the cultural dynamics of teaching Modern Hebrew at a large public university

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD in Hebrew literature, Hebrew instruction/pedagogy, or cognate fields
• Successful experience in Modern Hebrew college instruction
• Experience teaching within a Jewish Studies program

Applicants with an M.A. will be appointed at the rank of Teaching Specialist. Those with a Ph.D. will be appointed at the rank of Lecturer.

The Department of Classical and Near Eastern Religions & Cultures is devoted to the study of the interconnected cultures and languages of the ancient Mediterranean world, from the dawn of civilization in the Near East through Late Antiquity. We consider these societies and the literatures, religions and artifacts they produced as of interest in and of themselves, while recognizing that they are sources of many modern practices, ideologies and institutions. We also regard them as a reservoir of alternative modes of thought and community, and thus as a means of reflecting on the nature and problems of the modern world. We are committed to the study of antiquity because this contributes to understanding the present and preparing the future. To understand the intellectual and cultural heritage of antiquity, we study original sources in original languages with the modern critical approaches of our disciplines. Much of our work is accordingly literary, philological and historical in character. We also ask broader questions about ancient values, beliefs, and political and social structures, with particular attention to religious communities and convictions and their legacies.

Pay Range: $8,000 - $10,250 per course; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 67.5% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Retirement plans
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

All applications must include the documents listed below. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

• CV
• Cover letter describing candidate's intellectual background, language teaching experience, and approach to teaching Modern Hebrew in the current cultural and political climate at a large public university
• Three letters of recommendation sent by letter writers to cnrc@umn.edu

Initial deadline for applications is 11:59PM on Friday, April 17, 2026, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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