Founded in 1993 for the formation of Catholic women, the Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology (MBIT) is an academic institution that works within the Roman Catholic Church and its principle of human flourishing through God’s grace. While prioritizing women, we are available to all. We set out to offer transforming experiences through theological education and research, professional pastoral practice and personal formation. The Institute is a member of the Cambridge Theological Federation (CTF), and works with the University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University.
We are inviting applications for Research Associateships of 3 years, renewable annually and beginning in October 2024. Our Catholic-centred and ecumenically inclusive research community provides a warm and supportive environment for theological research, with a strong pastoral focus. Committed to promoting the feminine in theology and women in ministry, our research, teaching and outreach are in strong synergy, supporting leadership, coaching and supervision, working collaboratively to respond attentively, imaginatively and constructively to the needs of church and world, and fostering sustainable development. As a “whole Church” institute, we welcome research both in traditional theological disciplines such as Biblical studies, dogmatics, ecclesiology and liturgy, and in transdisciplinary work, for example theology and philosophy, theology and healthcare, theology and the arts, including from practitioners (e.g. medical professionals, artists, and teachers, not just academics).
We hold 5 research hybrid in person/online seminars per year, for which research associates may propose a long or short paper, and MBIT participates in the CTF Annual Research Day. A minimum attendance at one research seminar at least per year is required.
Normal entry level is PhD, though we will consider postgraduate students in exceptional cases.
Research associates are entitled to a Cambridge University Library card and associated benefits, as well as access to the Divinity Faculty library and Federation libraries. Borrowing rights in these libraries are at the discretion of the particular library.
No financial remuneration is given to research associates. We will give special consideration to applicants who have research funding, of which 12% is payable to MBIT, but we welcome too applications from researchers without funding: successful applicants may apply for research funding through MBIT.
Please send to the Acting Director of Research, Rev Dr Dominic White OP, by noon (GMT) on 19 August 2024:
- Your CV
- A cover letter (1 page of A4), outlining your research plans
Method of appointment:
Applications will be considered by the Acting Director of Research in consultation with the Academic Management Team. Appointments will be made on the written evidence provided. Applicants will not normally be called for interview. Decisions will be made by 19 September 2024.