April D. Hughes

April D. Hughes is an Associate Professor of Religion specializing in Religions of China at Boston University's College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Religion. She holds a Ph.D. in Religion from Princeton University (2014) and M.A. degrees in East Asian Studies from UC Berkeley and UCLA. Her research focuses on medieval Chinese religion, particularly Buddhist manuscripts and mural paintings from Dunhuang, examining intersections of apocalypticism and imperial sovereignty. She is the author of Worldly Saviors and Imperial Authority in Medieval Chinese Buddhism (2021), recognized as a finalist for the American Academy of Religion's Excellence in Historical Studies Award.

• Education:
• Ph.D. in Religion, Princeton University (2014)
• M.A. East Asian Studies, UC Berkeley and UCLA

Her research interests include the cultural and social contexts of medieval Chinese Buddhism, apocalyptic scriptures, and the role of religious imagery in imperial politics. Courses taught span Asian religions, Buddhist art, and interdisciplinary topics in religion and sexuality.

• Key Awards:
• Finalist, 2022 Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion (Historical Studies)

Dr. Hughes advises doctoral students through courses like CAS RN 793 and maintains active research on Dunhuang manuscripts. She coordinates professional development for graduate students and is affiliated with BU's Religious Studies program.