Find Academic Supervisors

Sandra L. MenssenView profile

Professor

• Philosophy of Religion
• Religious Epistemology
• Natural Theology
• +4 more

Sandra L. Menssen is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of St. Thomas, where she also served as Chair of the Philosophy Department (2003–2015) and currently serves as Associate Dean of the School of Education since 2018. Her research focuses on philosophy of religion, religious epistemology, and natural theology. She holds a BA and PhD in Philosophy from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. Dr. Menssen has held editorial roles with Logos: A Journal of Catholic Thought and Culture (Co-editor, 1998–2003; Consulting Editor, 2004–2008) and has been actively involved with organizations such as the Minnesota Philosophical Society and the Society of Christian Philosophers. In 2016, she was honored as a John Ireland Presidential Scholar for her academic contributions. Her work bridges classical philosophy and contemporary theological debates, with notable publications addressing divine revelation, hylomorphism, and comparative religious arguments. She has collaborated extensively with co-author Thomas D. Sullivan on topics ranging from the problem of evil to the philosophical foundations of human rights.

Francis X. ClooneyView profile

Professor

• Comparative Theology
• Hindu Studies
• Jesuit Missionary History
• +3 more

Francis X. Clooney is the Parkman Professor of Divinity and Professor of Comparative Theology at Harvard Divinity School (HDS). He joined HDS in 2005 after 21 years at Boston College. His academic work focuses on Indological studies, comparative theology, and Jesuit missionary history. He served as Director of the Center for the Study of World Religions at Harvard from 2010 to 2017. A Jesuit priest, his research bridges Hindu traditions and Catholic theology, emphasizing interreligious dialogue and theological learning across cultures. Education: BA from Fordham University, MDiv from Weston School of Theology, PhD in South Asian Languages and Civilizations from the University of Chicago (1984). Research interests include theological commentarial writings in Sanskrit and Tamil Hindu traditions, comparative theology's methodologies, early Jesuit engagement with Asian religions, and interreligious dynamics. He has authored over 20 books, including Comparative Theology: Deep Learning across Religious Borders (2010) and Hindu and Catholic, Priest and Scholar: A Love Story (2024). His recent work explores translations of Hindu texts and the future of interfaith studies. Awarded honorary doctorates from the University of Scranton (2023) and Le Moyne College (2024), he is a Fellow of the British Academy (2010) and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (2025). He has held leadership roles, including President of the Catholic Theological Society of America (2022–2023). His current projects include translating Tamil Vaiṣṇava poetry and exploring interfaith studies' future directions. Engagement with global religious communities is central to his work, reflected in lectures, interfaith dialogues, and scholarly collaborations. His memoir (2024) and articles highlight his dual identity as a priest and scholar navigating Hindu and Catholic traditions.

Lorin GeitnerView profile

Lecturer

• Law and Religion
• Comparative Legal Systems
• Religious Studies
• +5 more

Lorin Geitner is a Lecturer in Religious Studies at Chapman University's Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, with a secondary affiliation at the Fowler School of Law. His interdisciplinary work bridges legal scholarship and religious studies, focusing on the intersection of law with religion, legal ethics, and comparative religious systems. Geitner's research spans topics like Law as religion in courtroom rituals The influence of Shari'a and Halakah on modern legal frameworks Contemporary conflicts between religious freedom and secular law Religious symbolism in public spaces Analysis of Lovecraft's cosmology through theological lenses His publications examine legal perceptions across cultures, using spatial theory to analyze courtroom dynamics in the U.S., Britain, and China. He also explores historical legal battles involving religious figures like Mary Baker Eddy, and syncretism in religious iconography such as the Virgin Mary and Isis.

Chakravarthi Ram-PrasadView profile

Professor

• Comparative Phenomenology
• Epistemology
• Metaphysics
• +15 more

Professor Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad is a Fellow of the British Academy and Distinguished Professor at the School of Global Affairs , Lancaster University . His interdisciplinary work bridges Indian (Hindu, Buddhist, Jain) and comparative philosophy, theology, and political thought. PhD in Philosophy, Oriel College, Oxford B.A. in Politics, Sociology, and History, Sri Sathya Sai Institute Research Themes: Comparative phenomenology, epistemology, metaphysics, and consciousness studies; religion-politics intersections; South Asian identities in Britain; India-China philosophical parallels; and decolonizing philosophy. His 2023 work on Rāmānuja’s Vedārthasaṃgraha examines qualified nondualism and emotional reconciliation of divine-human identity. Scientific Recognition: British Academy Fellow (2017), Society for Hindu Christian Studies Best Book award for Divine Self, Human Self (2013), and Templeton Foundation support for consciousness research. He co-leads the Leverhulme Comparative Classics project (2020) with Oxford and New School scholars. Key Collaborations: Mind-Life Institute (neurophilosophy of meditation), Hindu-Christian Forum (archiepiscopal dialogues), and Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies advisory council. His 2016 book Human Being, Bodily Being redefines phenomenology through Indian medical, poetic, and contemplative texts.

Steven Richard ScottView profile

Professor

• Ancient Near East
• Hebrew Bible
• Israelite Religion
• +8 more

Steven Richard Scott serves as a Part-Time Professor in the Department of Theological Studies at Concordia University, Montreal. His scholarly work centers on historical and literary analysis of biblical texts, with expertise spanning Ancient Near East, Hebrew Bible, Israelite Religion, Second Temple Judaism, Historical Jesus, New Testament, Early Christianity, and Gnosticism. He maintains broad engagement with comparative religious mysticism across Christian, Islamic, Jewish, Hindu, Taoist, Buddhist, and New Age traditions. Dr. Scott's academic credentials include: Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto focusing on religious studies (Ancient Near East and Middle East) with secondary emphasis on philosophy and literature Master of Arts from the University of Ottawa specializing in Second Temple Judaism, researching Apocalyptic thought, Judaic sect origins, and messianic concepts Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Ottawa completed with research at Heidelberg University, analyzing Jesus's resurrection miracles through structural methodology to establish Jesus as the Heavenly Messiah His research employs literary structural analysis, particularly chiasm (concentric patterns), to decode meaning in orally transmitted biblical compositions. Dr. Scott approaches scripture primarily as a historian rather than theologian, though Biblical theology remains central to his work. His methodology bridges historical context and literary form to trace religious concept evolution from Ancient Near Eastern foundations through early Christian communities. Dr. Scott's publication record features his 2008 Journal for the Study of Pseudepigrapha article examining binitarian theology in the Book of Similitudes (1 Enoch), demonstrating how the text presents God with dual aspects as both the Son of Man and Ancient of Days. This work exemplifies his expertise in early Jewish apocalyptic literature and messianic interpretation within Second Temple contexts. No scientific awards or fellowships are documented in available records. Information regarding graduate student supervision, research grants, laboratory facilities, or collaborative research teams was not provided in source materials.

McComas TaylorView profile

Professor

• Sanskrit Studies
• Hindu Epistemology
• Puranic Literature
• +3 more

McComas Taylor is a Professor at the Australian National University, affiliated with the School of Culture, History and Language within the ANU College of Asia and the Pacific. His research bridges contemporary critical theory with classical Sanskrit narrative literature, focusing on the construction of 'true' discourse in the Foucauldian sense within the Sanskritic, Hindu episteme. He has published extensively on the Pañcatantra cycle and Mahapuranas, exploring textual authority, social division, and performative practices. His work also extends to the flexible delivery of small-enrolment languages. Academic Focus: Sanskrit Literature, Hindu Epistemology, Puranic Texts Key Contributions: Author of 'The fall of the Indigo Jackal' (2007), editor of Puranic studies, and researcher on oral performance dynamics Taylor's recent projects include 'Indian Idol - Performing Krsna in a globalizing World' (2008-2010) and 'Second Australian Sanskrit Summer School' (2009). His Scopus profile indicates an h-index of 45, reflecting significant scholarly impact. He has pioneered digital Sanskrit pedagogy, including electronic textbooks for e-learning.

Peter FriedlanderView profile

Associate Professor

• Hindi-Urdu Language and Literature
• Buddhist Studies
• Dalit Studies
• +3 more

Associate Professor Peter Friedlander is an academic at the School of Culture, History & Language, Australian National University (ANU), specializing in Hindi language studies, Buddhist traditions, and Dalit Studies. He has held teaching roles at Antioch University (India), La Trobe University, and the National University of Singapore. His research focuses on intersections between Hindi literature, religious practices, and social movements in South Asia. He advised on Australia's National Hindi Curriculum (2015-16) and organized major language education workshops. Education: BA (1986) and PhD (1991) in South Asian Studies from SOAS, University of London. His doctoral work centered on the poet-saint Raidas. Awards include the 2013 World Hindi Conference honour and keynote speaking engagements in Mauritius (2016). Research interests span Hindi pedagogy, Buddhist ethics, and marginalized communities' cultural expressions. Notable projects include a 2018-2020 study on Processability Theory in LOTE education with Dr. Dao. His publications explore topics like Kabir's poetry evolution, pilgrimage as protest, and Buddhist political thought. Publications highlight innovative language teaching methods (e.g., comics in Hindi instruction) and critical analyses of religious texts. He has contributed to edited volumes on South Asian religions and served as reviewer for journals like Religions and Asian Studies Review . Grants include funding for language education research, while his teaching emphasizes cultural immersion. He collaborates with international institutions on curriculum development and digital pedagogy initiatives.

Manjari SharmaView profile

Adjunct Associate Professor

• Photography
• Visual Arts
• Hindu Mythology
• +5 more

Manjari Sharma serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. A Mumbai-born, Los Angeles-based visual artist, her practice explores ritual, identity, memory, and mythology through photography and interdisciplinary installations, often drawing from personal experiences with her mother's battle against Frontotemporal Dementia. Her research investigates the convergence of Hindu spiritual concepts with scientific inquiry, particularly regarding death rituals and cosmic phenomena. Recent projects like Tat Tvam Asi- The Universe is a Mirror (2024) and Expanding Darshan (2023) demonstrate her signature approach of blending personal narrative with cultural iconography to create speculative visual dialogues between scripture and astronomy. Sharma's artistic output reveals consistent thematic evolution toward synthesizing traditional Hindu practices with contemporary scientific frameworks, using intricate digital collages and constructed narratives to process grief while speculating on afterlife concepts. This trajectory positions her work at the intersection of cultural anthropology, neuroscience, and visual storytelling. Her notable recognition includes: Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grant (2024) Sharma has secured significant institutional support for collaborative projects including the 2024 two-part exhibition between AEIVA and UAB's Brain Aging and Memory Clinic. Her creative process involves extensive collaboration with Mumbai-based craftspeople to realize complex visual narratives, while her teaching focuses on observational techniques and fine art photography principles through courses PHOT-102A and PHOT-254A.

• English Literature
• Islamic Studies in Literature
• Poetry
• +4 more

M. Z. Mashreque is a full-time Lecturer of English at South Carolina State University (SCSU), affiliated with the Department of English and Communications. He coordinates the Composition Computer Classroom as part of the Freshman Writing Success Project, focusing on retaining freshmen through enhanced writing skills. He also serves as a committee member of the Intersectional Studies Conference and contributes to the departmental newsletter. Education: B.A. (Honors) in English from Dhaka University (1978), followed by two M.A. degrees in English Language and Literature from Dhaka University (1979) and Truman State University (1984), and a TESOL certification from Oxford Seminars (2010). Research focuses on Islam's portrayal in literature, creative writing projects including poetry and short stories, and English language pedagogy. He has presented papers on topics ranging from ancient epics like Mahabharata to modern Muslim community dynamics. His published works span poetry, literary analyses, and educational materials. Mashreque has been at SCSU since 2015, actively involved in student advising and professional development initiatives such as organizing educational conferences. His Freshman Writing Success Project emphasizes technology integration in composition classrooms to elevate academic standards.

Edwin BryantView profile

Professor

• Hinduism
• Indian Philosophy
• Religious Studies
• +5 more

Edwin Bryant is a Professor in the Department of Religion at Rutgers University's School of Arts and Sciences. Specializing in Religions of India, he is based at the New Brunswick campus and can be contacted via edbryant@rutgers.edu . Education: Ph.D., M.Phil, B.A. from Columbia University; additional studies at Manchester University His research focuses on Hinduism, Indian philosophy, and religious studies, with particular emphasis on Krishna mythology, Yoga Sutras, Bhakti Yoga, and the Indo-Aryan migration debate. He has published extensively on these topics, including translations and commentaries on classical Indian texts. Notable publications include Krishna: A Sourcebook (2007), The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (2009), and Bhakti Yoga: Tales and Teachings from the Bhagavata Purana (2017). His work spans historical analysis, textual studies, and comparative religious frameworks.

• English Literature
• Orientalism
• Islamic Studies in Literature
• +3 more

Muhammad Mashreque is a full-time Lecturer in the Department of English and Communications at South Carolina State University (SCSU), where he has served since 2015. He coordinates the Composition Computer Classroom for the Freshman Writing Success Project and contributes to departmental newsletters and committees, including the Intersectional Studies Conference. His teaching spans English Composition I & II , World Literature , Advanced Grammar , and Public Speaking . Education: TESOL/TESL/TEFL Certification, Oxford Seminars (2010) M.A. in English Language and Literature, Truman State University (1984) M.A. in English Language and Literature, Dhaka University (1979) B.A. (Honors) in English Language and Literature, with minors in Political Science and General History, Dhaka University (1978) His research focuses on Islam in Literature , exploring its treatment across cultures and eras through works like Islam and Literature: Past and Present . Other projects include poetry manuscripts Beyond the Barrier and The Return , short stories in The Shoplifter , and pedagogical texts like Essentials of English . His publications and conference papers span topics from Romantic poetry to intercultural communication and geopolitical analysis. Mashreque actively supports student success through academic advising and initiatives like the Freshman Writing Success Project, which emphasizes intensive reading and writing skills. His professional engagement includes organizing educational conferences and serving on departmental committees. While no explicit scientific awards are mentioned, his contributions to curriculum design, cultural discourse, and student development underscore his academic impact.

Robin RinehartView profile

Professor

• Hinduism
• Buddhism
• Sikhism
• +5 more

Professor Robin Rinehart is a Professor of Religious Studies at Lafayette College where she serves as head of the Religious Studies department and chair of Asian studies. Her academic career spans several decades with a consistent focus on South Asian religious traditions. Her research expertise includes: Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism Religions of Asia with linguistic proficiency in Hindi and Sanskrit Methodological approaches to religious studies Historical interactions between Hinduism and Islam Rinehart's scholarly publications demonstrate a progression from Hindu hagiography to contemporary Sikh textual studies. Her work on the Dasam Granth represents a significant contribution to understanding this controversial 1,428-page text believed to be authored by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. Rather than focusing on doctrinal debates about the text's religious status, Rinehart examines its place within Indian literature and society, noting its greatest relevance during the 18th century Sikh kingdoms period. Her academic recognition includes: Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award Thomas Roy and Lura Forrest Jones Lecture Award Jones Faculty Lecture Award Professor Rinehart maintains active professional engagement as co-chair of the Religion in South Asia Section of the American Academy of Religion and membership in the Association for Asian Studies. She has advised numerous students through independent study and honors thesis research, and has presented her work internationally in India, Italy, Belgium, Trinidad, and Canada.

Graham M. SchweigView profile

Teaching Professor

• Hinduism
• Yoga Philosophy
• Sanskrit Literature
• +5 more

Graham M. Schweig serves as Distinguished Teaching and Research Faculty at the Center for Dharma Studies (Graduate Theological Union). His academic career includes faculty positions at Christopher Newport University since 2000, prior teaching fellowships at Harvard University, and lecturing roles at UNC, Duke University, and a two-year appointment as Visiting Associate Professor of Sanskrit at the University of Virginia. His educational background comprises: PhD in Comparative Religion, Harvard University ThM in Religion, Harvard University MTS in Religion, Harvard University MA in Religion, University of Chicago BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, American University Dr. Schweig's research centers on Hinduism, Yoga Philosophy, and Sanskrit Literature, with specialized focus on Love Mysticisms, Comparative Theology (particularly Hindu Bhakti-Catholic connections), and Religious Pluralism. His work bridges academic scholarship with spiritual practice through translation of classical Sanskrit texts and interfaith dialogue initiatives. His publications from 2005-2024 demonstrate consistent exploration of Krishna devotion, Bhagavad Gita exegesis, and Rasa Lila theology, reflecting deep integration of scriptural studies, literary analysis, and devotional practice within Hindu traditions. Scientific recognition includes: CNU's Alumni Faculty Award for Teaching and Mentoring (2013) Multiple teaching excellence awards He has served as doctoral dissertation consultant/examiner across the US, Europe, India, and Australia, supported by grants including a Smithsonian Institution-funded year-long research residency in India. Dr. Schweig's applied scholarship extends through yoga workshops and seminars conducted globally for over 20 years, informed by 50+ years of traditional practice and 13 research trips to India.

Jonathan R. SenningView profile

Professor

• High-performance computing
• Computational mathematics
• Queueing theory
• +3 more

Jonathan R. Senning is a Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science at Gordon College, working within the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science in the School of Science, Technology and Health. He has maintained a dual focus on mathematical theory and practical computer applications throughout his academic career. Dr. Senning earned his educational credentials from prestigious institutions: Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, University of Virginia, 1992 M.A.M. in Applied Mathematics, University of Virginia, 1989 B.S. in Physics and Mathematics, Gordon College, 1985 His research spans multiple interconnected domains with a strong emphasis on computational approaches. Senning has developed significant expertise in high-performance computing applications for solving complex mathematical problems, particularly in queueing network theory. His work bridges theoretical mathematics with practical computing solutions, creating tools that enable more efficient problem-solving in computational mathematics. He has maintained active membership in the Association of Christians in the Mathematical Sciences since 1993 and the Mathematical Association of America. Dr. Senning's scholarly output reveals a consistent trajectory from foundational mathematical research toward increasingly sophisticated computational implementations. His publications demonstrate expertise spanning theoretical queueing network analysis, high-performance computing implementations, and educational technology applications. The evolution of his work shows a progression from pure mathematical research to practical software development that makes complex mathematical concepts accessible. His professional activity includes significant software development projects that translate theoretical concepts into practical tools: QNetDP - for computing optimal policies in queueing networks QNet Approximator - NSF-funded project for computing cost bounds Numerical Solution of First Order Differential Equations - web-based educational tool LAVA (Linear Algebra Visualization Assistant) - interactive linear algebra learning platform As an educator, Senning has taught a comprehensive range of courses from introductory programming and calculus to advanced topics in machine learning and high-performance computing, demonstrating his ability to connect foundational mathematical concepts with cutting-edge computational applications.

Richard FoxView profile

Professor

• Asian cultural studies
• Religion and public culture
• Media studies
• +4 more

Richard Fox is a Professor & Chair in the Department of Pacific and Asian Studies at the University of Victoria, Faculty of Humanities. His research focuses on the historical and ethnographic study of religion, media, and performance in South and Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and the Malay region. He holds a PhD in Anthropology and Religious Studies from SOAS (2002) and a Habilitation in Anthropology from Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg. His work bridges anthropology, religious studies, and media theory, with notable publications on Balinese culture, scriptural practices, and the role of media in shaping religious identity. Leadership roles: Chair of Indonesia/Timor-Leste Studies (AAS), Co-chair of Religion in Southeast Asia (AAR), Founding Editor of Heidelberg Ethnology. Key publications include More Than Words: Transforming Script, Agency, and Collective Life in Bali (2018) and The Materiality and Efficacy of Balinese Letters (2017). Grants: Henry Luce Foundation grant for Timor-Leste studies.