Benjamin Brose

Benjamin Brose is a Professor of Buddhist and Chinese Studies at the University of Michigan's Department of Asian Languages and Cultures, serving as Department Chair. He holds affiliations with the Lieberthal-Rogel Center for Chinese Studies, Center for Japanese Studies, and Nam Center for Korean Studies. His research focuses on the history of Chinese Buddhism, particularly medieval and modern periods, with special attention to Chan/Zen traditions, Buddhist relics, and religious exchanges in East Asia.

Education: PhD (2009) and MA (2004) from Stanford University; MA (2002) from UC Berkeley; BA (1996) from UC Santa Cruz.

Research Interests: Brose explores Buddhist cultural history, including Xuanzang’s legacy, Song dynasty critiques of Buddhism, and the interplay between religion and politics. His recent publications include Embodying Xuanzang (2023) and Xuanzang: China’s Legendary Pilgrim (2021). He has been supported by prestigious fellowships like the Fulbright Foundation and ACLS.

Teaching: Courses include 'Zen Buddhism: History, Culture, & Critique' and 'Buddhism and Death'. He advises on graduate research in Buddhist studies and co-leads initiatives like the Buddhist Studies Group at Michigan.

Awards/Grants: Recipient of grants from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation, and others. His work bridges historical scholarship with modern religious practices, emphasizing East Asian religious continuity and transformation.