Judith Gruber

Judith Gruber is a Research Professor in the Research Unit Systematic Theology and the Study of Religions at the Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, KU Leuven. She holds a PhD in Systematic Theology from the University of Salzburg (2012) and previously served as Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology at Loyola University, New Orleans (2012–2017). Her research focuses on postcolonial theology, decolonization, and the role of dissent in ecclesiological frameworks, particularly exploring how Catholic theology intersects with critical cultural theories.

Her current project develops 'dissent' as an epistemological and ecclesiological principle, addressing theological decolonization and the reconfiguration of church structures. She supervises numerous PhD projects on topics ranging from decolonizing theology to ecclesial conflict resolution. Key areas include postcolonial political theology, intercultural theological representation, and the intersection of trauma studies with religious practice.

Gruber frequently presents at international conferences and contributes to edited volumes, emphasizing the necessity of confronting colonial legacies in theological discourse. Her work bridges theoretical rigor with practical ecclesial reform, advocating for inclusive and conflict-acknowledging church models.