Position Overview

The Department of Dance, together with the Department of Near Eastern and South Asian Languages and Cultures (NESA) and the Melton Center for Jewish Studies at The Ohio State University, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in Jewish South Asian Dance Practices beginning Fall 2026. We seek a researcher whose work engages Jewish South Asian culture and history as related to performance practices on the stage and/or screen. The scholar will have a one-course annual teaching load and is charged with helping deliver courses in Dance and NESA, as well as assisting with research-based initiatives in the Melton Center. The scholar will work closely with faculty, students, and staff in Dance, NESA, and the Melton Center to expand research in Jewish South Asian performance histories.

This position is part of the Presidents Postdoctoral Scholars Program, which recognizes highly qualified postdoctoral trainees across all scholarly disciplines, who will become leaders in their fields.

Performance Objectives

• Maintain an active and impactful research agenda
• Contribute to Melton Center events and initiatives
• Deliver high-quality instruction in courses related to dance and performance in South Asia
• Contribute to the intellectual, research, and pedagogical life of the Department of Dance, Department of Near Eastern and South Asian Languages and Culture, Melton Center for Jewish Studies, and Ohio State at large

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Dance Studies, Performance Studies, or a related field (ABD accepted with degree in hand by start of appointment.
• Strong expertise in Jewish performance histories of South Asia
• Record of scholarly, creative, and/or professional achievements involving Jewish dance and performance in South Asia
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment

Desired Qualifications:

• Demonstrated evidence of successful teaching in higher education
• Demonstrated collaboration across multiple disciplines, including but not limited to film, theater, dance, and Jewish Studies

A competitive application consists of the following required elements:

• A project abstract
• CV

The application deadline for this appointment is May 18, 2026. Inquiries may be directed to Hannah Kosstrin (kosstrin.1@osu.edu).

Salary & Benefits

This full-time benefits-eligible position includes an annual salary of $61,008, as well as a research account of $5,000 to be used during the period of the appointment.

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