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Frank Griffel is the Louis M. Rabinowitz Professor of Religious Studies at Yale University, where he has been teaching since 2000. His academic work is deeply rooted in Islamic intellectual history, focusing on theology, philosophy, and the interplay between reason and revelation. He holds a PhD from the Freie Universität Berlin and previously worked as a research fellow at the Orient Institute in Beirut. University: Yale University Department: Department of Religious Studies Academic Rank: Professor His research expertise lies in classical and post-classical Islamic philosophy, particularly the works of al-Ghazālī, Fakhr al-Dīn al-Rāzī, Avicenna, and Averroes. He has made significant contributions to understanding how philosophical discourse evolved in the Islamic world after the so-called classical period, challenging the notion of decline and highlighting the emergence of new genres such as ḥikma . His scholarship bridges theology and philosophy, examining how Muslim thinkers reconciled Aristotelian and Neoplatonic ideas with Islamic doctrine. Griffel’s most recent major work, The Formation of Post-Classical Philosophy in Islam (2021), redefines the field by demonstrating the continuity and innovation in 12th-century Islamic thought. His earlier book, Al-Ghazali’s Philosophical Theology (2009), is widely regarded as a seminal study. He has also published extensively on topics such as apostasy, virtue ethics, and the reception of philosophical texts, with articles spanning from 2011 to 2025. His work often appears in major academic handbooks and journals, and he has edited and translated key texts into German, Arabic, and Turkish. Islamic Philosophy Islamic Theology (Kalām) Post-Classical Islamic Thought Al-Ghazālī Studies Fakhr al-Dīn al-Rāzī Avicenna and Averroes Griffel has contributed to collaborative volumes such as Shari’a: Islamic Law in the Contemporary Context and Islam and Rationality , and his research engages with both historical and contemporary debates in Islamic thought. He has no listed scientific awards or students in the provided texts, but his influence is evident through citations and scholarly engagement. He maintains an active research profile, with recent publications addressing ambiguity, contradiction, and the popularization of philosophy in medieval Islam. He has held affiliations with the University of Oxford as a Faculty Member in the Faculty of Theology and Religion, indicating a strong international academic presence. His work continues to shape the understanding of Islamic intellectual history, particularly in the West.

• Islamic Philosophy
• Islamic Theology
• Islamic Law
• +13 more

Joseph Pak is Professor of Biblical Studies at Taylor University in the Biblical Studies, Christian Ministries, Intercultural Studies & Philosophy Department . A New Testament scholar with a PhD from Dallas Theological Seminary, he invests his life in training the next generation of Christian leaders. Education PhD, New Testament Studies – Dallas Theological Seminary STM, New Testament Studies – Dallas Theological Seminary MDiv, School of Divinity – Liberty University BS, Electrical Engineering – Virginia Tech Research Interests Pak’s research centers on the New Testament , particularly the epistles of James and 2 Peter , exploring themes of self-deception in theology , wealth and poverty in early Christianity , Scriptural inspiration , and false believers . He also examines the intersection of contemporary philosophical discussions with biblical hermeneutics and theological ethics. Publications & Translations He has authored the monograph False Believers in the New Testament and the volume What the Bible Says about the Dangers of Self-Deception: An Exegetical Approach . Additionally, Pak translated six influential Christian works from English into Korean, including Daniel Fuller’s The Unity of the Bible and Everett Ferguson’s The Background of Early Christianity , thereby bridging Korean and Western evangelical scholarship. Professional Service & Outreach Regular presenter at the Evangelical Theological Society national conferences Contributed 10 New Testament introductions to The Abide Bible (Thomas Nelson, 2020) Has taught courses at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary , Liberty University , Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary , and Taylor University Joseph Pak’s overarching passion is to know, love, and serve Jesus while equipping students to lead with biblical integrity.

• New Testament Studies
• Biblical Theology
• Self-Deception in Theology
• +3 more

Matthew J. Nelson is a Professor of Politics and Head of the Department of Politics and International Studies at SOAS University of London. He holds a BA from Bowdoin College and a PhD from Columbia University. His research focuses on South Asian politics, particularly the intersection of religion, law, and democracy. He has held academic positions at institutions such as UC Santa Cruz, Yale University, and the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) in Princeton. Professor Nelson's work examines topics including Islamic law, constitutionalism, non-elite politics, and the dynamics of democracy in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and India. He is a member of the SOAS South Asia Institute and a founding member of the Centre for Comparative Political Thought and the Centre for Conflict, Rights, and Justice. He has served on boards for organizations like the American Institute of Pakistan Studies and the Religion and Politics Section of the American Political Science Association. His recent publications analyze Taliban governance, religious opposition forces in Bangladesh, and the interplay between constitutional frameworks and religious freedom. He has also contributed to policy consultations with institutions like the Brookings Institution and the British Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office. His advising includes supervising PhD theses on topics such as Pakistan’s constitutional changes and bureaucratic appointments. His academic contributions span authored books, peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, monographs, and opinion pieces on South Asian politics and Islamism.

• South Asian Politics
• Religion and Politics
• Law and Politics
• +5 more

Younasse Tarbouni is a Teaching Professor of Arabic at Washington University in St. Louis, affiliated with the Department of Jewish, Islamic, and Middle Eastern Studies . Holding a PhD from EHESS (University PSL, Paris) and an MA from Carson-Newman College, his work focuses on migration dynamics, language policies, and sociopolitical issues in the Global South and MENA region. Education Background: PhD: EHESS, University PSL, Paris, France MA: Carson-Newman College Research Interests: Mediterranean migration patterns and business networks Global South development vs. Global North decline Forced migration linked to apostasy Socio-ethnic tensions in post-2010 Arab societies Political representation of North African diasporas Arabic language challenges in Global North education systems Media Presence: Featured in WashU publications discussing migration narratives ( "We are all migrants" ) and cultural practices ( "What it means to share a meal" ).

• Mediterranean migration business
• Global South evolution
• Apostasy and forced migration
• +6 more

Rev. Dr. hab. Antoni Nadbrzeżny serves as Professor at John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL) within the Faculty of Theology, specifically in the Department of Pneumatology, Ecclesiology and Mariology. His scholarly work centers on advanced theological research with particular emphasis on Mariology, Ecclesiology, and the theological contributions of Edward Schillebeeckx. Nadbrzeżny's research interests demonstrate deep engagement with contemporary theological challenges. His work explores dialogical ecclesiology as a response to Vatican II, examining how the Church can navigate modern secular contexts while maintaining theological integrity. Significant focus is given to Schillebeeckx's hermeneutic theology, Mariological developments from 'Mother of Redemption' to 'Mother of All Believers,' and the existential dimensions of faith in contemporary culture. His publications consistently address the intersection of personalist anthropology with soteriology and pneumatology. His recent scholarly output reveals a clear trajectory toward dialogical theology that bridges historical tradition and contemporary challenges. The 2025 monograph on Schillebeeckx's Mariology represents culmination of decades examining pneumatological and ecclesiological themes through phenomenological lenses. Articles consistently explore tension points between faith and modernity, particularly regarding religious freedom, anthropological concepts, and the Church's role as sacrament of dialogue. Bronze Medal for Long Service (2016) Rector's Award of KUL (4th degree team award, 2011) Rector's Award of KUL (3rd degree team award, 2006) Nadbrzeżny actively supervises doctoral candidates at KUL's Doctoral School since 2019 and serves as Consultant and Secretary of the Polish Episcopal Conference's Faith Science Commission. His current research includes the Ministry of Education-funded project 'The Church as a Space for Dialogue: The Second Vatican Council Reread.' He regularly presents to clergy formations, including the Sandomierz Diocese's ongoing program, and contributes to international theological discourse through publications and conferences.

• Mariology
• Ecclesiology
• Pneumatology
• +5 more

Stephen Bullivant is Professorial Research Fellow in Theology and Sociology at the University of Notre Dame Australia (Sydney Campus), School of Philosophy & Theology, and also Professor of Theology and the Sociology of Religion at St Mary's University, London. He holds doctorates from Oxford (Theology) and Warwick (Sociology), and directs the Benedict XVI Centre for Religion and Society at St Mary's. His research spans the sociology of religion, Catholic theology, atheism, nonreligion, and religion’s interaction with science and technology. Key areas include Catholic disaffiliation, secularization, empirical studies of Christianity, and the abuse crisis in the Church. He has published extensively, including major works like Mass Exodus , The Oxford Handbook of Atheism , and The Cambridge History of Atheism . The recent articles reflect a strong interdisciplinary focus on Catholicism, secular trends, and moral theology. They show a consistent methodological blend of empirical data, sociological analysis, and theological reflection, particularly on British and American religious contexts. Topics include youth commitment, liturgical change, conscience, and ecclesial power structures. Fellow, International Society for Science and Religion (2019–) Fellow, Higher Education Academy (2010–) Fellow, Word on Fire Institute (2019–) Co-director, Nonreligion and Secularity Research Network (2008–14) Prof. Bullivant has led and co-led numerous research grants, including major projects funded by the John Templeton Foundation, Arts and Humanities Research Council, and Porticus UK. He supervises research in theology and sociology of religion and collaborates widely across institutions. He is actively engaged in public scholarship, with media contributions in BBC, The Guardian, The New York Times, and EWTN. He is also involved in editorial work for journals such as Secularism and Nonreligion , Antiphon , and the International Journal for Evangelization and Catechetics .

• Sociology of Religion
• Catholic Theology
• Atheism and Nonreligion
• +8 more

Magdalena Grabowska is a Tutor at the Institute of Applied Linguistics within the Faculty of Philology at the University of Gdańsk. She holds a doctorate and specializes in tutoring and coaching, emphasizing personalized development and trust-building with students. Her academic work bridges linguistics, religious studies, and social identity. Research Focus: Her interdisciplinary interests include: Linguistic behavior in Polish evangelical communities (e.g., Baptist and charismatic groups) Discourse at the intersection of religious identity, sexuality, and LGBT+ experiences Media analysis of human rights debates (abortion, feminism, cultural wars) Narrative methodologies in ethnolinguistics and duoethnography Publication Trends: Her recent articles (2017-2024) cluster around three themes: Religious transitions: Apostasy narratives, ritual studies, and identity shifts in evangelical communities Marginalized identities: Non-heteronormative experiences in Catholic/Protestant contexts and exclusion-inclusion dynamics Discourse analysis: Prayer pragmatics, dialogicality boundaries, and semantic valuation in religious language She predominantly uses qualitative methods like case studies, fieldwork, and narrative analysis. Advising & Service: She mentors students on communication, feminism, and sexuality topics but supervises no formal advisees. No grants, awards, or lab affiliations are documented.

• Linguistics in Religious Communities
• Identity Discourse
• Religious Experience and Sexuality
• +4 more

Kristie Dotson serves as the University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor at the University of Michigan, affiliated with the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) and the Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) program. Her work bridges institutional roles with transformative philosophical inquiry focused on systemic oppression. Her academic foundation includes: Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Memphis (2008) M.A. in Philosophy from the University of Memphis (2005) M.A. in Literature from the University of Illinois at Chicago (1999) B.A. in African American Studies, Business Administration, and English Literature from Coe College (1996) Professor Dotson's research centers on epistemic violence and exclusion within knowledge production systems, particularly examining how Black feminist frameworks expose mechanisms that maintain racial and gender hierarchies. Her scholarship demonstrates how epistemic practices obscure oppression through deliberate gaps in recognition and validation of marginalized perspectives. Her work critically engages metaphilosophical questions about philosophy's purpose, arguing for its role as a practice of social transformation rather than abstract theorizing. This perspective manifests in her development of concrete tools like the Faculty Epistemic Exclusion Scale and theoretical innovations such as epistemic exclusion theory. Analysis of her publication trajectory reveals increasing focus on institutional manifestations of epistemic injustice, particularly within academic evaluation systems. Her recent work combines rigorous theoretical development with personal narrative forms (love letters, apostate tales) to demonstrate how epistemic resistance operates through both scholarly and embodied practices. This dual approach challenges traditional boundaries between academic philosophy and lived experience while documenting patterns of scholar devaluation affecting faculty of color.

• Epistemology
• Metaphilosophy
• Feminist Philosophy
• +5 more

Mohsen Kadivar is a Research Professor of Islamic Studies at Duke University's Department of Religious Studies, affiliated with Trinity College of Arts & Sciences. He has been at Duke since 2015, following previous roles including Visiting Research Scholar (2010–2015) and Visiting Instructor (2009–2010). His academic background includes a Ph.D. from Tarbiat Modares University (1999), M.A. and B.A. from University of Qom (1993 and 1989), and extensive teaching experience in Iran and abroad. Kadivar’s research focuses on classical/modern Islamic thought, Shi’ite political theory, human rights, and the intersection of Islam with modernity, ethics, and science. Education: Ph.D., Tarbiat Modares University (1999); M.A., University of Qom (1993); B.A., University of Qom (1989). Global Expertise: Iran, Shi’ite jurisprudence, and Middle Eastern politics. His research interests span Qur’anic studies, Islamic mysticism (Sufism), ethics, comparative philosophy, and the politicization of religion. He advocates for reformist interpretations of Islamic law to align with human rights and modern values. Recent work critiques apostasy laws, explores Shi’ite political thought, and examines marriage contract reform. Notable grants include the National Humanities Center (2019–2020) and Wissenschaftskolleg zu Berlin Fellowship (2017). Awards include recognition as a top 5% instructor at Duke (2016) and Global Ethics Fellow with the Carnegie Council (2012–2014). He has advised over a dozen graduate students on topics ranging from Iranian politics to Islamic ethics. Kadivar teaches courses on Islamic philosophy, the Qur’an, and ethics, emphasizing critical engagement with religious texts and contemporary issues. His public commentary addresses Iranian socio-political dynamics and the global relevance of Islamic reformism.

• Islamic Studies
• History of Thought
• Islamic Ethics
• +8 more

Dr Elaine Murphy is an Associate Professor of Maritime and Naval History at the University of Plymouth , affiliated with the School of Society and Culture within the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business. She specializes in early modern maritime history, particularly focusing on the British Civil Wars, Oliver Cromwell, and women’s roles in naval contexts. She holds leadership roles including Associate Head of School for Education and Student Experience (2023-present) and previously led History and Art History programs (2017-2020). Her teaching includes modules like Royal Navy in the Age of Sail and Piracy and Privateering . Her research explores women’s experiences with the Royal Navy in the 17th century, examining contractors, sailors’ families, and onboard life. This project received support through fellowships from the Leverhulme Trust (£55k), Royal Museums Greenwich, and the Beinecke Library. She co-authored The British Civil Wars at Sea, 1638-53 (2018), recognized with a Certificate of Merit from the Society for Nautical Research. Elaine supervises PhD/ResM students in maritime history, early modern British and Irish history, and women’s naval history. She has led field trips to Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard and Royal Museums Greenwich. Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to gender equality and historical understanding. Key achievements include a Leverhulme Research Fellowship (2022-2023) and co-editing the 1641 Depositions series (2014-2020), documenting Irish Rebellion testimonies. She actively engages in public history through media and social media (@PlymPrivateer).

• Maritime History
• Early Modern British History
• British Civil Wars
• +3 more

Dr. Simon Cottee is an Honorary Senior Lecturer in Criminology at the University of Kent's School of Social Sciences. He previously held roles at Bangor University and the University of the West Indies in Trinidad. Educated at Cambridge University, LSE, and Keele University (PhD in Criminology), his research focuses on apostasy, political violence, terrorism, and the sociology of religion. He led an ESRC-funded study on ex-Muslims in Britain and Canada and authored books like Black Flags of the Caribbean and The Apostates . His work examines phenomena such as ISIS recruitment in Trinidad and radicalization dynamics. Cottee teaches modules on war, terrorism, and criminological theory and currently supervises PhD students from Saudi Arabia studying counter-terrorism strategies. Education: PhD in Criminology (Keele University), MSc/LSE, BA/Cambridge Professional Affiliations: Society for the Scientific Study of Religion, Association for the Sociology of Religion, Editorial Board of Studies in Conflict & Terrorism Recent Work: Over 98 publications, including studies on ISIS propaganda, incel motivations, and the sociology of apostasy. His research often bridges criminology with socio-political issues, emphasizing the intersection of religion, violence, and extremism. Cottee’s global perspective is reflected in projects analyzing Caribbean ISIS recruitment and counter-terrorism strategies in Saudi Arabia.

• Apostasy
• Political Violence
• Terrorism Studies
• +3 more

Rev. Dr. Michael Hakmin Lee is Associate Professor of Ministry & Leadership and Program Director of three M.A. programs (M.A. Evangelism & Leadership, M.A. Ministry Leadership, M.A. Missional Church Movements) at Wheaton College. He holds a Ph.D. in Intercultural Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, a Th.M. in Systematic Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a B.A. in Biochemistry from the University of Texas at Austin. Ph.D., Intercultural Studies – Trinity Evangelical Divinity School Th.M., Systematic Theology – Dallas Theological Seminary B.A., Biochemistry – University of Texas at Austin Dr. Lee's research centers on missiology, intercultural studies, religious deconversion, race and ethnicity, theology of religions, and the social impact of technology. He explores how contemporary challenges—such as AI, social media, and religious pluralism—affect Christian discipleship and gospel witness. His work bridges theological reflection with practical ministry engagement. His recent and forthcoming publications reveal a strong trend in analyzing digital culture, deconversion, and interfaith dynamics. He investigates how artificial intelligence and social media reshape disciple-making, while also addressing deep existential questions behind why evangelicals leave the faith. His scholarship integrates interdisciplinary perspectives from theology, sociology, and communication studies. Dr. Lee is an active scholar in the Evangelical Missiological Society, where he currently serves as VP of Finance. He has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed journals and edited monograph series, reflecting sustained academic engagement. He advises on graduate theological education and has led initiatives in distance learning pedagogy. Though no formal advisees are listed, his leadership in M.A. programs suggests significant mentorship. He is also involved in community service as a church elder, certified judo instructor, and youth baseball coach, reflecting a holistic integration of faith and vocation. Dr. Lee is affiliated with Wheaton College’s College of Ministry and Leadership and contributes to the mission of advancing evangelical scholarship and practice in a changing world.

• Missiology
• Intercultural Studies
• Religious Conversion and Deconversion
• +11 more

Dr. Aled Thomas is a Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Leeds , School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science. He specializes in the study of religions, sociology of religion, and digital religion with a focus on minority and new religious movements. Previously taught at the Open University and the University of Wolverhampton, he joined Leeds in 2022 as a Teaching Fellow. Honorary Treasurer, British Association for the Study of Religions Chair, Inform Management Committee Research interests include: Religion as everyday practice Free Zone Scientology Cult rhetoric in political/religious discourse Digital religion Recent work examines: Hybridized religious/political discourses Ex-membership and apostasy in minority religions Religious experience in secular media (e.g., The Adventures of Tintin) Professional memberships: British Association for the Study of Religions European Association for the Study of Religions British Sociological Association

• Study of Religions
• Sociology of Religion
• Lived Religion
• +4 more

Ines Michalowski is a Professor of Sociology of Religion at the Department of Sociology, University of Münster, specializing in religious diversity, organizational sociology, and migration studies. Her work bridges secularization, religious practices, and citizenship policies across Europe. PhD in Sociology (Paris) and Political Science (Münster) Co-founder of the Cluster of Excellence 'Religion & Politics' (Deputy Speaker) Research Interests: Focus on Muslim integration in public institutions, body practices, and interreligious dialogues. She explores how secular frameworks negotiate religious accommodations in schools, hospitals, and pools. Articles Trends: Recent publications analyze conflict dynamics in organizational policies, secularization processes, and cross-national comparisons of religious integration. Her work spans empirical studies in Germany, France, and global contexts. Academic Roles: Includes visiting professorships at Harvard and University of Göttingen, alongside advisory roles at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF, Germany) and the University of Haifa.

• Sociology of Religion
• Organizational Sociology
• Religion and Migration
• +4 more

Prof. Dr. Ali Osman KURT is the Dean of the Faculty of Religious Studies at Ankara Social Sciences University (ASBU), where he heads the Department of History of Religions. He holds a PhD from Ankara University (2006), an MA from Cumhuriyet University (2000), and a BA from Marmara University (1995). His administrative roles include membership in the ASBU Scientific Publication Ethics Committee and board positions at the Writers Union of Turkey (TYB) and Turkey Association for the History of Religions (TUDTAD). His research focuses on early and modern Jewish studies , with emphasis on Babylonian exile, Jewish fundamentalist movements (Hasidic and Mitnagdic), apostasy in Abrahamic religions, and the economic dimensions of kosher practices. He explores intersections between theology, anthropology, and socio-religious history. KURT's publications demonstrate consistent focus on Jewish theological evolution, comparative religious anthropology, and critical analysis of biblical narratives. Recent works examine anthropological methodologies in religious studies, temple archaeology (Göbeklitepe), and contemporary interfaith challenges. His scholarship bridges historical analysis with modern socioreligious issues. Awards & Recognition: Researcher of the Year Award (Turkish Studies, 2017) Academic Leadership: He has advised 10+ graduate students (PhD/Master’s) on topics ranging from Alexandrian Christianity to Jewish identity preservation. Key projects include translating Ibn Kammuna’s interfaith works and directing studies on Anatolian religious tourism. Administrative responsibilities encompass deanship, university vice-rectorship, and editorial roles for academic journals including Ulum and TYB Akademi .

• History of Religions
• Early and Modern Jewish Studies
• Babylonian Exile
• +5 more