Paulo Mendes Pinto

Paulo Mendes Pinto is a Researcher at Lusófona University, where he coordinates the Science of Religions area and leads the REC-XXI project on Religions, Education, and Citizenship. He has directed the Master’s and Bachelor’s programs in Religious Studies and serves as a Director of Advanced Islamic Leadership Training and Editorial Director of Lusófona University’s publications. His work bridges interreligious dialogue, state-religion relations, and cultural heritage projects with institutions like the Presidency of the Republic Museum and Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation.

• Education: PhD in Cultural Studies (University of Aveiro, 2021), Master’s in Pre-Classical History and Culture (University of Lisbon, 2001), Bachelor’s in History (University of Lisbon, 1997).

His research focuses on religious freedom in Portugal, Jewish heritage, Islamic patrimony, and education for sustainability in museums and libraries. Through projects like MUBIESUS and Database of Islamic Heritage in Portugal, he explores intersections of critical pedagogy, environmental justice, and cultural diversity. His recent articles analyze symbolism in religious rituals, urban spirituality, and political uses of religious discourse.

He is actively involved in public science initiatives, collaborating with the European Academy of Religions (founded in 2017) and the World Parliament of Religions (Ambassador, 2015–2018). No formal awards are listed, but his leadership in projects like the Mapping of the Neves e Sousa Collection and Community Engagement Against Radicalization underscores his institutional impact.