R. Raj Singh is a Professor of Philosophy at Brock University, specializing in Contemporary Continental Philosophy, Indian philosophies (Vedanta, Buddhism, Gandhi), and the works of Heidegger and Schopenhauer. He holds academic credentials from Panjab University (B.A., M.A.), Brock University (M.A.), and the University of Ottawa (Ph.D.). His research focuses on trans-cultural philosophical dialogues, particularly between Eastern and Western thought. Key areas include the philosophical implications of Bhakti, the concept of death in Schopenhauer and Indian traditions, and Heidegger’s ontology of technology and dwelling. Dr. Singh has authored multiple books and scholarly articles, including Schopenhauer: A Guide for the Perplexed (2010) and Heidegger, World and Death (2013). His work bridges ancient Greek philosophy, phenomenology, and Eastern spiritual traditions, emphasizing ethical and aesthetic dimensions across cultures. He has been affiliated with Brock University since completing his doctoral studies, contributing extensively to the Philosophy department’s academic and curricular development.
Hayley M. Haugen is a Professor of English at Ohio University Southern, part of the College of Arts and Sciences. She teaches composition, American literature, and creative writing, and is deeply engaged in both literary creation and critical scholarship. Her work bridges creative and academic domains, particularly in poetry and disability studies. Ph.D. in 20th Century American Literature, Ohio University (2006) MFA in Poetry, University of Washington (1995) Her research focuses on creative writing, poetry, disability and illness in contemporary American literature . She explores how personal and bodily experiences are represented in literary works, especially through the lens of authors like Nancy Mairs and Stephen King. Her creative work often reimagines myth and fairy tale, while her critical contributions analyze the cultural and medical narratives surrounding the body. The analysis of her publications reveals a consistent engagement with themes of identity, the body, trauma, and narrative form. Her poetic works emphasize lyrical expression and emotional depth, while her scholarly chapters contribute to disability studies, horror literature, and medical humanities. The interdisciplinary nature of her output reflects a deep integration of creative and critical practice. Her scientific awards include: 2021 Ohio University Southern Campus Faculty Award for Outstanding Research 2020 Ohio University Regional Higher Education Award for Outstanding Faculty 2019 Ohio University Southern Campus Faculty Award for Outstanding Research 2013 Ohio University Southern Campus Faculty Award for Outstanding Service 2011 Ohio University Southern Campus Faculty Award for Outstanding Teaching While no formal advisees are listed, her role as a professor and founding editor of Sheila-Na-Gig Inc. suggests mentorship and leadership in literary communities. She has not received explicit grant mentions, but her sustained publication and editorial work indicate funded or institutionally supported research activities. She leads the nonprofit literary journal and small press, which supports emerging writers and promotes diverse voices in poetry and nonfiction.
Chandler D. Rogers is a Lecturer in the Department of Philosophy at Gonzaga University. His research focuses on the human place in nature, ethics of human-animal relations, and intersections with theology and continental philosophy. Ph.D., Philosophy, Boston College (2022) M.A., Philosophy, Loyola Marymount University B.A., Biblical and Theological Studies, Biola University Rogers specializes in Environmental Philosophy , 19th Century Philosophy , and Continental Philosophy of Religion . His work engages with post-Spinozist ethical frameworks, the philosophy of nature in Schelling and Merleau-Ponty, and theological questions in Kierkegaard. He also explores themes of empathy, ecological conversion, and the role of myth in understanding human-animal kinship. The trends in his publications highlight a focus on continental environmental ethics , dissociation of faith , and post-Spinozist ecological thought . His articles often analyze tensions between autonomy and submission, human and nonhuman agency, and the role of psychoanalysis in environmental philosophy. Rogers teaches within the Catholic intellectual tradition and advocates for relational ethics that bridge individual uniqueness with communal and ecological responsibility.
Dr. Thomas Pollak is a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King's College London and an Honorary Consultant Neuropsychiatrist at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. He has been affiliated with King's since 2004 and has held his current academic position since 2015. Pollak is a leading researcher in immunopsychiatry, with a focus on autoimmune encephalitis and its psychiatric manifestations, and co-runs a specialized clinic for patients with autoimmune neurological disorders at King's College Hospital. Dr. Pollak completed his academic training with a BA in Psychology from Corpus Christi College, University of Oxford, followed by an MBBS in Medicine from King's College London. He obtained his MRCPsych certification from the Royal College of Psychiatrists and completed an MSc in Clinical Neurology from University College London. His diverse educational background spanning psychology, medicine, psychiatry, and neurology uniquely positions him at the intersection of these fields. Dr. Pollak's primary research interests lie at the intersection of immunology and psychiatry, with specific focus on autoimmune encephalitis, particularly as it manifests as psychosis. He investigates the neuroimmunological basis of psychiatric disease, with emphasis on autoantibodies that cause autoimmune encephalitis. His work aims to improve early detection of autoimmune psychosis and elucidate brain mechanisms by which immune responses produce neuropsychiatric symptoms. He also studies immunological effects of psychotropic drugs, mental illness risk factors on immune function, infections in psychiatry, long COVID mechanisms, glutamatergic abnormalities in psychosis, and organic presentations in neuropsychiatry. Recently, he has developed research interests in the neuroscience and phenomenology of meditation and contemplative practices. Analysis of Dr. Pollak's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on autoimmune mechanisms in psychiatric disorders, particularly focusing on autoimmune encephalitis and its psychiatric manifestations. His work spans clinical studies, systematic reviews, and innovative methodological approaches to understanding the immune-psychiatry interface. A significant portion of his recent work addresses the neuropsychiatric sequelae of COVID-19, reflecting the pandemic's impact on research priorities. His publications demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration across psychiatry, neurology, immunology, and rheumatology, highlighting the transdisciplinary nature of modern immunopsychiatry research. Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Fellowship (2015) NIHR Clinical Lectureship (2019) Dr. Pollak actively mentors trainees and students, serving as a personal/pastoral tutor and dissertation supervisor on the MSc Clinical Neuropsychiatry program. He has led the King's Neuropsychiatry Meetings since 2015, described as the world's largest such seminar series. His grant portfolio includes the Wellcome Trust-funded Immune Mechanisms of Antipsychotic Treatment Response (IMAT) study, where he serves as co-Investigator and clinical lead. He also leads or co-leads several other research projects including ADAPT (investigating exercise interventions for rheumatology patients), a Rosetrees Trust project on long-COVID-19's effects on the brain, and the COPE-EMBRACE project on coping with stress after encephalitis. Dr. Pollak co-leads the King's Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group (NREG) with Dr. Tim Nicholson, which serves as an interdisciplinary platform for neuropsychiatry research. He has established and co-runs a joint multidisciplinary clinic at King's College Hospital dedicated to assessing and managing patients with autoimmune encephalitis and other CNS autoimmune disorders, as well as a neuropsychiatry-led long COVID clinic. His research group employs neuroimaging and neuroimmunological methods to characterize the significance of autoantibodies in psychiatric conditions, with the ultimate goal of improving clinical recognition and outcomes for patients with immune-mediated neuropsychiatric disorders.
Professor Krzysztof Leśniewski serves in the Department of Orthodox Theology at John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Poland, where he has established himself as a leading scholar bridging theological inquiry with medical ethics and psychological studies. His academic profile reflects deep expertise in Eastern Orthodox spirituality, particularly hesychasm, and its application to contemporary issues surrounding death, dying, and palliative care. Leśniewski's research interests span Orthodox theology , Christian anthropology , bioethics , and ecumenical dialogue , with a distinctive focus on how theological concepts inform medical practice. His work frequently examines the Great Canon of St. Andrew of Crete , brain death criteria, hope studies in terminal illness, and the spiritual dimensions of healthcare. His interdisciplinary approach connects theological anthropology with practical medical concerns, demonstrating how ancient spiritual traditions can inform modern healthcare practices. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent trend toward interdisciplinary scholarship that combines theological depth with empirical medical research. His articles frequently appear in both theological journals like European Journal of Science and Theology and medical journals including International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health , reflecting his unique position at the intersection of faith and healthcare. The recurring themes across his work include the theological understanding of human personhood, the spiritual dimensions of dying, and the application of Orthodox spirituality to contemporary medical ethics challenges. Nagroda im. Księzia Konstantego Ostrogskiego za zasługi w rozwoju myśli, kultury i duchowości prawosławia oraz działalność na rzecz jednoczenia chrześcijan (Prince Konstanty Ostrogski Award for merits in Orthodox thought, culture, and spirituality) Leśniewski has served extensively as a reviewer for doctoral dissertations in theology and Orthodox studies, though specific advisees are not listed in the available materials. His organizational work includes coordinating national conferences on topics ranging from hospice care to Eastern Christian spirituality. His scholarly activities demonstrate significant engagement with both academic theology and practical healthcare concerns, particularly through his examination of how Orthodox theological anthropology informs contemporary medical ethics and palliative care practices.
Claude Chapuis serves as an Expert Professor in the Wine & Spirits Department at the School of Wine & Spirits, Burgundy School of Business (BSB). His academic work focuses on the intersection of wine business, viticulture, and Burgundy's rich wine heritage. With numerous publications spanning over 15 years, Professor Chapuis has established himself as a significant contributor to wine scholarship. His research interests center on Burgundy wine history, terroir studies, wine culture, and wine marketing. Professor Chapuis examines both the historical and contemporary aspects of viticulture, with particular attention to Burgundy's unique position in the global wine landscape. His work often blends academic rigor with cultural insights, exploring how wine shapes and is shaped by regional identity, historical events, and social traditions. His publications reveal a deep engagement with both the practical aspects of winemaking and the philosophical dimensions of wine culture. Analysis of his 115+ publications shows a consistent focus on Burgundy's wine heritage, with particular attention to historical narratives, cultural traditions, and business aspects of wine. His recent work has expanded to include contemporary issues like wine tourism, international wine relations, and the evolving landscape of wine consumption. Professor Chapuis demonstrates a remarkable ability to connect historical wine practices with modern industry challenges, making his work relevant to both academic researchers and industry professionals. Professor Chapuis has advised numerous students in wine business programs at BSB and has been instrumental in developing the curriculum for wine-related courses. His extensive publication record suggests significant grant activity supporting his research into Burgundy's wine heritage and contemporary wine business practices. He has likely contributed to collaborative research projects with other wine scholars at BSB, particularly with colleagues like Bernard Lecat with whom he has co-authored multiple publications. As part of the Wine & Spirit Business disciplinary team at BSB, Professor Chapuis contributes to the school's mission of advancing wine business education and research. His work supports BSB's position as a leading institution for wine business studies, particularly in the context of Burgundy's prestigious wine region.
Bonnie S Essner, PhD is a pediatric psychologist at Ann & Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, affiliated with Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health and the Neurointestinal and Motility Program in the Department of Pediatrics. She holds an Assistant Professor appointment at Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. Research Focus: Dr. Essner develops and evaluates digital health programs for youth with chronic conditions, emphasizing contemplative practices, mind-body interventions, and positive psychology. Her work bridges pediatric gastroenterology with psychological treatment of chronic pain, nausea, and fatigue. Professional Memberships: Editorial Board Member, Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology (2024-Present) Member, International Society for Research on Internet Interventions (2025-Present) Member, Rome Psychogastroenterology Group (2023-Present) Member, Society for Digital Mental Health (2022-Present) Member, International Positive Psychology Association (2020-Present) Institute Affiliations: Institute for Public Health and Medicine (IPHAM) Osher Center for Integrative Health Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (NUCATS)
Agnes Bolinska is an Associate Professor in the Department of Philosophy at the University of South Carolina , where she joined in 2020 and was named a McCausland Fellow in 2024. She previously held teaching roles at Cambridge University , the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point , and the University of Pittsburgh . Currently, she serves as the Director of Graduate Studies and chairs the Joint Commission of the International Union of the History and Philosophy of Science and Technology (IUHPST) . PhD , University of Toronto (2015) BSc , University of Toronto (2006) Bolinska's research focuses on the integration of information from theoretical frameworks, experimental techniques, and disciplinary perspectives. She explores how representations enable integration of theory and data, assesses reliability of incommensurable evidence, and investigates methodological fusion of historical and philosophical approaches in History and Philosophy of Science (HPS) . Her current project examines integration of Buddhist and scientific perspectives in the emerging field of contemplative science . Her publications emphasize epistemic representation , integrative modeling , and path dependence in HPS , with recent work appearing in Synthese , Erkenntnis , and Studies in History and Philosophy of Science . She received the 2019 IUHPST Essay Prize for her work on historical path dependence. In addition to her research, she contributes to professional leadership as a member of the DLMPST Council .
David Storey is an Associate Professor of the Practice in the Philosophy Department at Boston College, where he has taught since 2013. He specializes in environmental ethics, climate change communication, philosophy of technology, and comparative philosophy. Holding a B.A. from Boston College and a Ph.D. from Fordham University, his teaching spans courses such as Perspectives on Western Culture , Climate Change Ethics , and Philosophy as a Way of Life . His research integrates Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, with notable works like Naturalizing Heidegger (2015) and a podcast Wisdom at Work exploring public-facing philosophy. Storey’s publications address interdisciplinary themes including Nietzsche’s ecological relevance, Heidegger’s engagement with biology, and integral theory’s role in climate communication. His work bridges academic philosophy with practical societal issues, emphasizing ethical frameworks for climate policy and technology’s societal impact. Despite no listed awards, his contributions to accessible philosophy through teaching and media are significant. He advises courses focusing on climate ethics, technology, and contemplative practices but has no recorded formal advisees. His academic activities are centered within the Philosophy Department, with no explicit lab or team affiliations mentioned.
Louise Hickman serves as Reader in Philosophy of Religion at Newman University within the Faculty of Arts, Society and Professional Studies, where she leads postgraduate Theology provision and coordinates Philosophy and Ethics modules across undergraduate and foundation programs. Her academic foundation includes undergraduate and master's degrees from the University of Exeter followed by a PhD from the University of Cambridge, establishing her expertise in historical and religious philosophy. Hickman's research centers on seventeenth- and eighteenth-century British philosophy with deep specialization in Cambridge Platonism and Rational Dissent traditions. She innovatively bridges historical analysis with contemporary philosophy of religion and science-religion dialogue, pioneering an ethico-political reconceptualization that examines how moral and political frameworks reshape religious philosophical discourse. Her work consistently explores intersections between theological concepts and socio-political movements, particularly through figures like Richard Price. Analysis of her publications reveals sustained engagement with the transformative potential of historical philosophical movements for modern religious thought. Her scholarship demonstrates increasing integration of science-religion perspectives with ethical-political theory, while maintaining rigorous focus on primary textual analysis of dissenting traditions. Key thematic developments include ecotheological applications, universalist theology, and reconceptualizations of divine action within scientific frameworks. Her scholarly recognition includes significant fellowships: Fellow of the International Society for Science and Religion Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy Hickman actively supervises research students in Philosophy of Religion, Philosophical Theology, and Eighteenth-Century Rational Dissent. Her externally funded collaborations include advisory roles for the Templeton Foundation's 'God and the Book of Nature' project and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada's study on 'The Reception of German Mysticism in Early Modern England', demonstrating international research leadership. She previously served as editor of Reviews in Science and Religion (2011-2018). Professional engagement extends through memberships in the American Academy of Religion, British Society for the History of Philosophy, British Society for the Philosophy of Religion, and UK Science and Religion Forum, alongside her trustee role with the Trussell Trust addressing poverty relief.
Will W. Adams is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Duquesne University and a practicing psychotherapist/ecopsychologist. He holds a B.S. in Business (UNC-Chapel Hill, 1980), M.A. in Psychology (West Georgia College, 1985), and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (Duquesne, 1993). Previously, he served as a Clinical Fellow at McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School. His research integrates existential phenomenology, relational psychoanalysis, Gestalt therapy, and Zen Buddhism/Christian mysticism. Education: B.S., Business, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 1980 M.A., Psychology, West Georgia College, 1985 Ph.D., Clinical Psychology, Duquesne University, 1993 Research focuses on ecopsychology, contemplative spirituality, and nature-based healing. Current projects include a book titled A Wild & Sacred Call: Nature, Psyche, Spirit , exploring phenomenology and transpersonal frameworks. He teaches courses on psychology, ecology, and spirituality, including Ecopsychology and Psychology and Spirituality: Christian-Buddhist Dialogue . Publications span topics like ecological ethics, pandemic psychology, and Gestalt therapy. He serves on editorial boards of Humanistic Psychologist and Journal of Humanistic Psychology . His work bridges academic research with clinical practice, emphasizing relational and embodied approaches.
James Morley is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychology at the School of Social Science and Human Services (SSHS), Ramapo College of New Jersey, since 2002. His research bridges continental philosophy (particularly Maurice Merleau-Ponty) with phenomenological psychology, trauma studies, and qualitative methodology. Education: BA from Ramapo College, BA and PhD from Duquesne University. His scholarly work explores intersections of phenomenology with trauma, social theory, and Asian thought. Recent publications focus on neurophenomenology, applied qualitative methods, and inter-religious imagination. He serves as editor-in-chief of the Journal of Phenomenological Psychology and engages in international collaborations, including lectures in Japan, Vietnam, and Germany. Notable contributions include co-founding Ramapo’s India Study Abroad Program (2003-2010) and directing the Mindfulness Center (2014-2017). Teaching specialties include Abnormal Psychology, Existentialism, and Phenomenological Psychology.
Jenna Hartel is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Information, University of Toronto, where she has been a faculty member since 2008. Her work bridges Library and Information Science (LIS) with interdisciplinary social science, focusing on information in the context of leisure, creativity, and well-being. She is affiliated with the Faculty of Information and teaches in the Master of Information program, particularly within the Library and Information Science concentration. PhD in Information Studies, University of California, Los Angeles BA in American Studies, Colby College Her research centers on the nature of information in pleasurable and profound life experiences, especially serious leisure activities like hobbies. She employs innovative visual and arts-informed methodologies and leads the iSQUARE Research Program. Her teaching includes courses such as The Information Experience and Information Ethnography , and she advises both master’s and doctoral students on information behavior in everyday life. Her recent publications reflect a trajectory toward positive information science, contemplative practices, multispecies perspectives, and storytelling in research. Themes across her work include happiness, care, creativity, and holistic visions of information science. She uses multimedia platforms, notably her YouTube channel INFIDEOS, to disseminate knowledge and innovate in LIS education. Scientific Awards ASIS&T Distinguished Member, 2023 ASIS&T Outstanding Information Science Teacher Award, 2023 ASIS&T/SI-USE Outstanding Information Behaviour Research Award, 2022 ALISE Pratt-Severn Faculty Innovation Award, 2022 Community of Champions (Teaching Award) Nominee, University of Toronto, 2016 Excellence in Teaching Award, Library Journal/ALISE, 2016 Innovation Award, ASIS&T/SIG-USE, 2013 Highly Cited Paper Award, Journal of Documentation, 2010 Dialog/ALISE Methodology Paper Award, 2006 Hartel has secured multiple research grants, including projects on Information and Contemplation and A Theory of Information in the Hobby of Gourmet Cooking . She mentors graduate students and promotes compassionate, inclusive academic supervision. She is actively involved in leadership roles, such as serving on the Masters of Information Recruiting and Admissions Committee and the Life and Times Committee. Her work with the INFIDEOS YouTube channel exemplifies her commitment to public engagement and creative pedagogy. She is also associated with research teams and initiatives like the iSQUARE Research Program and has collaborated widely across the LIS field. Her future work continues to explore contemplative, positive, and multispecies dimensions of information science.
Ian H. Solomon is Dean and Professor of Practice of Public Policy at the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, University of Virginia. He leads a multidisciplinary faculty dedicated to creating new knowledge, developing ethical and effective leaders, and advancing solutions to humanity’s greatest policy challenges. His leadership spans academia, government, and international organizations. Education: AB, Harvard University JD, Yale Law School Research and Professional Interests: Ian Solomon is a trained lawyer and devoted scholar of negotiation and conflict resolution. His work integrates insights from public policy, leadership, domestic and international affairs, and global development. He is particularly focused on private-sector development in Africa, ethical leadership, and the application of contemplative science in policymaking and education. His interdisciplinary approach bridges theory and practice. Scientific Awards: No specific awards are mentioned in the provided text. Advising and Grants: While no formal list of advisees or grants is provided, Solomon has mentored students through core programs like UVA’s Public Service Pathways and taught courses such as Democracy and Public Service. His leadership has secured institutional growth, including expanded academic offerings and faculty recruitment at the Batten School. He has also led initiatives connecting leadership with contemplative practice and global human development. Labs and Teams: Solomon collaborates with UVA’s Contemplative Sciences Center and leads institutional initiatives such as the 'Fridays at Batten' series. He has facilitated high-level panels like the African Human Capital Summit and works with international scholars and practitioners, including through engagements with the Dalai Lama and global policy leaders.
Tiina-Erika Friedenthal is a Research Fellow in Baltic German Literature at the University of Tartu, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Institute of Cultural Research, a position she has held since March 2023. Previously, she served as a Research Fellow in Comparative Literature (0.50 and 0.30 positions) from 2020 to 2023. She has also taught part-time at Miina Härma Gymnasium (2012–2022) and worked in advertising at Theatre Vanemuine (2002–2012). Doctor’s Degree, University of Tartu, 2020 Master’s Degree, University of Tartu, 2012 PhD studies at University of Tartu and University of Göttingen (2012–2020) Postdoctoral scholarship from Lutheran World Federation (2021) Her research focuses on Baltic German literary culture, early modern religious literature, and the history of theater in the Baltic region. She specializes in devotional texts, Passion poetry, pietist Bibles, and ideological debates around performative arts in 18th and 19th century Estonia and Livonia. Her work bridges theology, literary studies, and cultural history. Her recent publications (2023–2024) show a strong trend in analyzing religious texts, particularly Passion poetry, prayer books, and Bible prefaces in the Baltic context. She also continues her investigation into the cultural significance of theater, including censorship and Enlightenment-era debates. Her publications include journal articles, book chapters, and co-edited volumes, often with interdisciplinary and transnational perspectives. Nominee for the Annual Estonian Historical Literature Prize (2021) Special Prize of the President of the Estonian Academy of Sciences for the 'Most Elegant Student Thesis' (2021) Friedenthal has supervised or co-edited several academic works and contributed to collaborative research projects, including ETF9178 'Balti kirjakultuuri uurimis- ja võrguprojekt - EEVA'. She has not advised formal PhD or Master’s students listed in the data. She is actively involved in publishing and scholarly discourse, with a forthcoming book on Baltic literary culture and religion. Her work is closely tied to the Institute of Cultural Research and the School of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Tartu.
