The Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies (OCHS) has established two new Research Lectureships, funded fully by the OCHS.
Professor William Wood, Chair of the Theology and Religion Faculty Board and Associate Professor of Philosophical Theology, and Shaunaka Rishi Das, Director, Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies issued a joint statement this week to announce a major milestone for Hindu studies in Europe.
“The relationship between the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies (OCHS) and the University of Oxford’s Faculty of Theology and Religion has matured over more than two decades – working together to help develop the study of religion at Oxford.
“With generous support from the OCHS, scholars from the OCHS have regularly been employed by the Faculty to teach, tutor, and supervise students, and the Centre has also funded research positions, including that of the Professor of Hindu Studies and Comparative Religion.
“By working cooperatively, the field of Religious Studies in Oxford has been enriched and Hindu Studies established. With a view to consolidating this productive partnership the Faculty and the Centre are pleased to announce a new phase in our relationship.
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“We have established two new Research Lectureships, with Dr Jessica Frazier and Dr Rembert Lutjeharms appointed as our first post holders. Both will work part-time for both institutions, funded fully by the OCHS.
“The posts will consolidate Hindu Studies in Oxford, attracting more students, and encouraging new teaching, research, and publication. It will also ensure the broader study of religion, and comparative religion and philosophy.”
The Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies (OCHS) is an academy for the study of Hindu cultures, societies, philosophies, religions, and languages, in all periods and in all parts of the world, maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity, originality, and excellence.
It is a non-political and non-sectarian organisation and welcomes staff, students, and visitors of all backgrounds. The OCHS is a place where all ideas are open for dispassionate discussion and examination.
Dr Jessica Frazier, Research Lecturer, Faculty of Theology & Religion, and at the OCHS, said: “With these posts we can expand Hinduism and Indian Philosophy at Oxford, helping students to explore India’s rich intellectual history and bring its philosophies to life in new ways.
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“For me personally, this means new research and publishing on the topics I find most vitally important. And above all, I look forward to continuing my work in Oxford with wonderful colleagues and students.”
Lord Dholakia, Chair of the Board of Governors, OCHS, added: “The fact that Hindu Studies is being so recognised at this academic level, that the OCHS is the catalyst between the subject and the University, and the prospect of students of all backgrounds gaining access to a more serious consideration of these cultures, is an excellent step forward in education in this country.”