David Hollenberg

David Hollenberg is a Professor in the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies within the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Oregon. His scholarly work focuses on medieval Islamic communities, particularly Ismaili and Nusayri Shiism, examining how narrative, doctrine, and ritual shape communal identity.

Education:

• Ph.D., 2006, University of Pennsylvania

His research delves into esoteric Islamic traditions, with a special emphasis on doctrinal treatises and manuscript preservation. He has led groundbreaking projects in the digitization and translation of rare Islamic texts, especially from Yemen, where cultural heritage is under threat due to ongoing conflict. His interdisciplinary work bridges religious studies, history, and digital humanities.

Hollenberg's recent publications and grant-funded projects reflect a strong commitment to both academic scholarship and public access to knowledge. His work spans critical editions, translations, and the development of open-access Arabic language learning materials. The themes across his articles include Ismaili theology, esoteric interpretation (ta'wil), Yemeni manuscript preservation, and intellectual history in medieval Islam.

Scientific Awards and Grants:

• Senior Research Fellow, UNESCO Crossings Institute, University of Oregon
• National Endowment for the Humanities Scholarly Editions and Translations Grant (2019, $130,000)
• Open Oregon Resource Center (ORC) Grant (2021)
• NEH/DFG Grant ($330,000) for Yemen Manuscripts Digitization Initiative

Hollenberg has directed significant research initiatives, including the Yemen Manuscripts Digitization Initiative (YMDI), which has secured major funding to preserve endangered manuscripts. He collaborates with international institutions such as Princeton University Library and the Free University, Berlin. He also co-leads projects in Arabic pedagogy, aiming to expand access to language education in Oregon. His advisory roles are evident through grant leadership and collaborative scholarship, though formal student advisees are not listed.

Labs and Research Teams:

• Founder and Director, Yemen Manuscripts Digitization Initiative (ymdi.uoregon.edu)
• Team leader for Open Oregon Arabic textbook development project
• Senior Research Fellow, UNESCO Crossings Institute