What We’re Looking For: 

Post-doctoral Research Associate 

Faith, Disability, and Flourishing 

Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities 

We are launching a new interdisciplinary initiative at Baylor University focused on disability and faith. Our goal is to carry out research, training, resource development, and leadership that promotes the flourishing of people with disabilities, as well as their families and faith communities. We will be launching new lines of research focused on the religious and spiritual lives of people with disabilities, the postures and practices of local congregations, the impact of inclusive ministry models, and creative partnerships between faith-based organizations and disability service systems. Additional areas of inquiry will be identified by our team members, advisory board, community partners, and needs assessments. This Associate will work directly with Dr. Erik Carter and other faculty affiliated with the initiative. We are seeking two postdoctoral research associates with expertise and interest in partnering on the design, delivery, and dissemination of these and related studies. This two-year, full-time fellowships will provide rich opportunities to deepen one’s research program, develop new topical and methodological expertise, forge new collaborations, and advance inclusive and accessible ministry.  Although the start dates are flexible, fellowships must begin no later than Fall 2024. 

Education and Experience: 

Ph.D. in fields related to disability (e.g., special education, disability studies, rehabilitation), health sciences, sociology, religion/ministry, or related fields [Applicants who are ABD are invited to apply if their degree is conferred by the start of the fellowship] 

Prior experience related religion, disability, and/or their intersections  

Prior experience working on and leading research projects 

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Expertise in at least one research methodology 
• Willingness to learn additional approaches to data collection and analyses (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, mixed method) 
• Ability to engage relevant contemporary literature in religion and disability 

• Strong communication skills 
• Knowledge of key issues faced by people with disabilities and their families 
• Desire to see faith communities increase their accessibility and hospitality 

A Ph.D. with experience related to religion, disability, and/ or their intersections is required. This position also requires a Christian faith. This is a two year assignment. 

What You Will Do: 

Responsibilities -

• Contributing to the design and implementation of core initiative studies  
• Designing supplemental studies aligned with one’s individual interests, including measures, recruitment procedures, methods, and data analyses 
• Recruiting, supporting, and retaining study participants 
• Working with community and ministry partners to inform this work 
• Conducting systematic and other literature reviews 

• Developing applications for federal and foundation funding  
• Disseminating findings for both scholarly and lay audience  
• Making presentations at state and national conferences 
• Contributing to or leading data analyses 
• Collaborating with other team members on all aspects of this research 

Required Documents -

•  Cover letter detailing your research interests, personal connections, and prior experiences related to this position and our faith & disability initiative 
• Resume or CV 

• Contact information for three people who can speak to your interests and potential contributions to this work 
• Up to two writing samples (e.g., book chapter, dissertation chapter, journal article, work under review, work in progress) 

 For questions about the position, please contact Dr. Erik Carter at erik_carter@baylor.edu 

What You Can Expect:

 Compensation & Benefits 

As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, and tuition remission. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus. To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages .  

 Explore & Engage  

Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Illuminate . Also, explore our great hometown 

of Waco  and the many opportunities to engage locally .  

 The Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities  invests in research, training, outreach, and clinical services that promotes the flourishing of people with disabilities, their families, and communities. The Center hosts a growing number of programs, clinics, projects, and events focused on supporting individuals with intellectual disability, autism, and an array of other developmental disabilities. Likewise, we are committed to helping schools and communities welcome and support the full participation of people with disabilities and their families. 

• Job Identification 15199
• Job Category Staff
• Posting Date 07/25/2023, 12:27 PM
• Degree Level Doctorate
• Job Schedule Full time
• Locations 1214 S 4th Street, Waco, TX, 76706, US