Sessional Lecturer - NEW372H1F - The Architecture of Wellness: Braiding Indigenous & Buddhist Teachi

Description:

The Buddhism, Psychology and Mental Health Program at New College seeks a sessional lecturer from September 1, 2026 – January 11, 2027 to co-teach the following in person course:

NEW372H1F – The Architecture of Wellness: Braiding Indigenous & Buddhist Teachings

This course draws upon the knowledge streams of Indigenous and Buddhist perspectives to explore wellness on the individual and system levels. Classes take place both in a classroom and the Mother Earth Learning lodge at New College. Teachings focus on relationality, interconnection to the earth, along conceptual models of attention, self and non-self. Investigate questions related to building inclusive communities amidst an increasingly divisive and complex world. The course integrates multi-modal learning modalities, including didactic lectures, hands-on experiential practices and land-based learning.

Enrolment Estimate: 25 students

Estimated TA Support: 60 hours

Class Schedule:

Lecture: Thursdays 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Salary:                                 

Sessional Lecturer I:  $4,998.74

Sessional Lecturer I (Long-term):  $5,334.60

Sessional Lecturer II:  $5,334.60

Sessional Lecturer II (Long-term):  $5,476.98

Sessional Lecturer III:  $5,476.98

Sessional Lecturer III (Long-term):  $5,614.45

Please note that should rates stipulated in the collective agreement vary from rates stated in this posting, the rates stated in the collective agreement shall prevail.

Note:  This course will be delivered in an in person format. The successful candidate will be co-teaching the course alongside another course instructor. However, please note that, in keeping with current circumstances, the course delivery may change as determined by the Faculty or the Department

Minimum Qualifications

Completed  PhD  in an area related to the course. Applicants should have experience teaching and conducting ceremony in an Indigenous lodge, including familiarity with Indigenous medicines and ceremonial fires. Current engagement with Indigenous communities and familiarity with theories and practices related to the course content, including theories around Indigenous community building, ways of knowing, belonging, and wellness is required. 

Preferred Qualifications

Relevant teaching experience at the university level preferred. Preference will be given to candidates who self-identify as Indigenous. Recognizing that there are a variety of terms that potential candidates may use to self-identify, the University uses the term “Indigenous” in this search, which forms part of the U of T Response to Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, to encompass the people of Turtle Island, including those who identify as First Nations, Métis, Inuk (Inuit), Alaska Native, Native American, and Native Hawaiian people. Previous experience teaching in and/or participating in ceremony at the Askaakamigokwewigamig (The Mother Earth Learning Lodge). Ability to speak/sing an Indigenous language. Lived experience with the Seven Grandfather teachings and bringing these principals into daily practice. 

Responsibilities

Normal duties related to the design and teaching of a university credit course, including preparation and delivery of course content; development, administration and marking of assignments, tests and exams; calculation and submission of grades; and holding regular office hours.

It is understood that some announcements of vacancies are tentative, pending final course determinations and enrolment.

Application Process

Applicants should submit in one consolidated application package (e.g., PDF or Word document):

(1) a detailed letter of application;

(2) an updated curriculum vitae;

(3) names and contact information (email and phone) for two referees or two reference letters;

(4) evidence of teaching in the relevant area, including student evaluations if available;

(5) the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 application form located here: CUPE 3902 Unit 3 Application Form . 

Please note: This position is open to applicants who self-identify as Indigenous. Indigenous substantiation will be required only from the successful candidate and will be completed through the Indigenous Substantiation Portal, managed by the University of Toronto’s Office of Indigenous Initiatives. The successful candidate will receive instructions for completing the substantiation process at the appropriate stage of the hiring process.

For more information about Indigenous substantiation, please visit:

Applications should be sent, by July 17, 2026, to:

NEW COLLEGE

c/o New College Program Administrator

E-mail:  View email address on jobs.utoronto.ca

Only applications submitted to the email address listed above will be considered .

Closing Date: 07/17/2026, 11:59PM EDT
**

This job is posted in accordance with the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 Collective Agreement.

It is understood that some announcements of vacancies are tentative, pending final course determinations and enrolment. Should rates stipulated in the collective agreement vary from rates stated in this posting, the rates stated in the collective agreement shall prevail.

Preference in hiring is given to qualified individuals advanced to the rank of Sessional Lecturer II or Sessional Lecturer III in accordance with Article 14:12 of the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 collective agreement.

Please note: Undergraduate or graduate students and postdoctoral fellows of the University of Toronto are covered by the CUPE 3902 Unit 1 collective agreement rather than the Unit 3 collective agreement, and should not apply for positions posted under the Unit 3 collective agreement.