Find Academic Supervisors

• Midrash
• Interreligious Studies
• Jewish History
• +4 more

Prof. Burton L. Visotzky serves as Appleman Professor of Midrash and Interreligious Studies at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he directs the Milstein Center for Interreligious Dialogue and serves as Louis Stein director of the Finkelstein Institute for Religious and Social Studies. Professor Visotzky's research focuses on Midrash, Talmudic literature, interreligious dialogue, and Jewish historical development. His work explores how ancient Jewish texts continue to inform contemporary religious thought, with particular attention to the adaptation of cultural elements throughout Jewish history. He examines how rabbinic literature engages with broader cultural contexts while maintaining distinctive Jewish identities, as evidenced in his analysis of how Jews adapted Roman culture to shape Rabbinic Judaism. His recent publications examine themes of redemption in Jewish tradition, historical methodology in biblical interpretation, and the wisdom literature of the Talmud. Visotzky's scholarship bridges academic rigor with religious sensibility, arguing that biblical scholarship which challenges traditional beliefs about the Torah's textual integrity actually provides opportunities for spiritual revitalization of traditional Judaism. As director of the Milstein Center, Visotzky leads initiatives promoting dialogue between Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scholars. The Finkelstein Institute under his direction focuses on the intersection of religious thought and social concerns, examining how religious traditions can contribute to addressing contemporary social challenges through collaborative research and academic exchange.

Alana VincentView profile

Associate Professor

• Modern Judaism
• Interreligious Dialogue
• Religion & Literature
• +3 more

Dr. Alana Vincent is an Associate Professor in History of Religion at Umeå University's Department of Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies. Specializing in Modern Judaism, Interreligious Dialogue, and Religion & Literature, she holds a Docent research qualification and has been recognized as a Distinguished University Teacher. Previous affiliations: University of Chester, Glasgow University, Swedish Theological Institute Current research focuses: Digital memory, pandemic-era religious practice, and theological implications of speculative fiction Key editorial roles: Reviews Editor for Literature & Theology , Hermeneutics & Critical Theory Field Editor for Advances in Ancient, Biblical, and Near Eastern Research Her work bridges Holocaust commemoration, religious art analysis, and contemporary interfaith engagement. As a signatory of the Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism, she provides expertise in antisemitism education. Recent publications examine ritual adaptation during the pandemic and comparative analyses of religious texts. She co-edits the Journal for Interdisciplinary Biblical Studies and contributes to speculative fiction research through Team Speculative Fiction UmU. Scientific Awards: Distinguished University Teacher Research Collaborations: Multi-national teams across UK, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Germany, Poland, Slovenia

Ruth LangerView profile

Professor

• Jewish Studies
• Christian-Jewish Relations
• Religious Studies
• +3 more

Ruth Langer is a Professor of Jewish Studies in the Theology Department at Boston College, serving as Director of Graduate Studies and Associate Director of the Center for Christian-Jewish Learning. She holds a Ph.D. in Jewish Liturgy from Hebrew Union College (1994) and rabbinic ordination (1986). Her research focuses on Jewish liturgy and Christian-Jewish relations, with notable works like Cursing the Christians? (2012) and Jewish Liturgy: A Guide to Research (2015). Recent publications explore liturgical responses to crises, comparative religious practices, and historical liturgical development. Education: A.B., Bryn Mawr College; MAHL, Rabbinic Ordination, and Ph.D., Hebrew Union College. Courses: Judaism and Christianity in Dialogue, Jewish Prayer, Passover in Midrash and Talmud. Her scholarship bridges historical analysis and contemporary interfaith dialogue, particularly examining liturgical texts and their sociopolitical contexts. Key themes include Jewish-Christian relations, liturgical continuity/change, and ritual responses to modern challenges.

Dominik MarklView profile

Professor

• Old Testament/Hebrew Bible Studies
• Pentateuch Criticism
• Exegesis of Exodus and Deuteronomy
• +4 more

Dr. Dominik Markl, S.J. is a Professor of Old Testament/Hebrew Bible Studies at the University of Innsbruck's Faculty of Catholic Theology. He holds a prominent role in the Department of Biblical Studies and Historical Theology. His academic career includes visiting professorships at Georgetown University (2022) and adjunct roles at institutions like the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome and the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley. Markl's research focuses on Pentateuchal criticism, the emergence of monotheism in ancient Israel, and interdisciplinary studies on mass violence discourses. He has held prestigious positions such as Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellow (2008-2010) and earned the Kardinal-Innitzer-Förderungspreis in 2007. His work bridges biblical exegesis with contemporary issues like memory studies and political theology. He contributes to editorial boards of Biblica and Catholic Biblical Quarterly Monograph Series, reflecting his global scholarly impact. Education highlights include a Doctorate (2006) and Habilitation (2011) from the University of Innsbruck, with studies in theology at Innsbruck and Jerusalem (1997-2002). His research projects include analyzing discourses of mass violence and the Babylonian exile's theological implications. Markl's publications span 50+ papers and 8 books, with recent contributions addressing memory studies and biblical ethics. His academic networks span Europe, Africa, and North America through collaborations like the University of Pretoria's research associate role.

• Old Testament Literary and Religious History
• Pentateuchal Research
• Ancient Near Eastern and Biblical Legal History
• +4 more

Reinhard Achenbach is a Professor of Old Testament Theology at the University of Münster (Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität), affiliated with the Campus of Theologies. His academic career includes habilitation (2002) and a PhD in Old Testament Studies (1989) from the University of Göttingen. He has held leadership roles in multiple research projects, including heads of the Cluster of Excellence projects B3-27, C2-1, and C1, focusing on religious diversity, legal studies, and historical myths. Achenbach’s research emphasizes Pentateuchal redaction, Ancient Near Eastern legal systems, and Jewish identity in the Persian Empire. He has authored over 150 publications, including monographs and articles on topics such as the Torah’s development in the Persian period, legal traditions in Exodus, and comparative studies on religious policy. His awards include an honorary professorship from Indonesia’s Kirchlichen Hochschule Pemetangsiantar (2008). Achenbach teaches courses on Old Testament literature, interfaith dialogue, and biblical anthropology. He actively participates in academic organizations like the Society of Biblical Literature and the German Palestine Society. Education: Habilitation in Old Testament Studies, University of Munich (2002) PhD in Theology, University of Göttingen (1989) Second Theological Examination, University of Göttingen (1988) First Theological Examination (Protestant Church in Hesse and Nassau, 1982) Studies in Theology at Göttingen, Tübingen, and Uppsala (1976–1982) Research Interests: His work bridges biblical theology with historical and cultural contexts, focusing on legal traditions, migration narratives in Moses’ biography, and the intersection of religion and politics. Key themes include the development of the Torah in exile, Persian-era religious policies, and the theological implications of legal distinctions between Israelites and foreigners. Achenbach’s studies often integrate comparative legal frameworks from the Ancient Near East and biblical texts. Grants & Projects: Cluster of Excellence Management (Research Field B) Project Leadership: C2-1 (Religious Policy in the Achaemenid Empire), B3-27 (Scribes’ Discourses), and C1 (Israel’s Founding Charter) Co-Editor of Zeitschrift für Altorientalische und Biblische Rechtsgeschichte Labs/Teams: Achenbach leads the Centrum für Geschichte und Kulturen des Östlichen Mittelmeerraums and collaborates with international networks on biblical law and ancient cultural studies. His work often involves interdisciplinary teams analyzing legal texts, archaeology, and religious practices in the ancient Near East.

Sarah Bunin BenorView profile

Professor

• Sociolinguistics
• Jewish Languages
• American Jewish Studies
• +5 more

Sarah Bunin Benor is a Professor of Contemporary Jewish Studies at Hebrew Union College and an Adjunct Professor in the University of Southern California Linguistics Department . She holds a Ph.D. in Linguistics from Stanford University and a B.A. in Comparative Literature from Columbia University. Her work bridges sociolinguistics, Jewish language studies, and cultural identity. Ph.D., Stanford University (2004) M.A., Stanford University B.A., Columbia University (1997) Her research focuses on Jewish languages , including Yiddish, Hebrew, and Judeo-Greek, analyzing how language reflects and shapes Jewish identity. She explores topics like language contact , ethnolinguistic repertoire , and name-changing practices . Recent projects examine Sephardi/Mizrahi Jews in Los Angeles and linguistic diversity in Jewish communities. Dr. Benor has received prestigious awards such as the National Jewish Book Award and the Sami Rohr Choice Award . She founded the Hebrew Union College Jewish Language Project , which maintains the Jewish Language Website and Lexicon. As a sought-after speaker, she discusses Jewish languages in media and education.

• Biblical Criticism
• Torah Studies
• Hebrew Bible
• +3 more

David Frankel serves as Associate Professor of Bible at the Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem, where he teaches M.A. and rabbinical students. His academic journey began with doctoral studies at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem under the supervision of Prof. Moshe Weinfeld. Frankel's research focuses on biblical criticism, particularly the historical development of biblical narratives and Priestly literature. His scholarly approach emphasizes source-critical analysis, examining how biblical texts evolved through various editorial layers. His expertise spans Torah interpretation, Hebrew Bible studies, and the historical context of Jewish traditions. Frankel has made significant contributions to understanding the composition of biblical texts, identifying earlier narrative forms beneath the final redaction. His publications reveal consistent patterns of scholarly interest in textual discontinuities, narrative coherence problems, and the historical development of biblical laws and stories. Frankel frequently examines how later editors modified earlier traditions to address theological or political concerns of their time. His work demonstrates particular expertise in identifying independent narrative strands that were later interwoven into the biblical text. The Murmuring Stories of the Priestly School (VTSupp 89) The Land of Canaan and the Destiny of Israel (Eisenbrauns) Frankel's academic leadership extends to mentoring students in advanced biblical studies and contributing to contemporary discussions about the relationship between traditional Jewish interpretation and modern critical scholarship. His work bridges academic biblical criticism with traditional Jewish learning, making significant contributions to both scholarly and religious understanding of the biblical text.

• Hebrew Bible
• Ancient Near Eastern Studies
• Children in Ancient Societies
• +4 more

Kristine Henriksen Garroway serves as Associate Professor of Hebrew Bible at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR), where she also earned her doctorate in Hebrew Bible and Cognate Studies. Her academic work bridges biblical scholarship with anthropological and archaeological perspectives on ancient societies. Dr. Garroway's research focuses on children in ancient contexts , gender dynamics in biblical narratives, and ritual practices in the Ancient Near East. Her scholarship examines how cultural and religious frameworks shaped family structures, birth rituals, and social hierarchies in ancient Israel and surrounding civilizations. She employs comparative approaches, drawing connections between biblical texts and evidence from Hittite, Mesopotamian, and Greco-Roman sources. Her publications reveal consistent interest in anthropological interpretations of biblical narratives , particularly regarding marriage customs, fertility rituals, and the social status of children. Garroway's work demonstrates how ancient legal codes and religious practices reflected and reinforced societal norms around gender, family, and inheritance. Dr. Garroway has authored the significant work Children in the Ancient Near Eastern Household and contributed numerous scholarly articles examining topics such as bride-price customs, gender differentiation in birth rituals, and the anthropological significance of twin narratives in Genesis.

• Biblical Studies
• Medieval Jewish Exegesis
• Bible Commentary
• +2 more

Prof. Rabbi Robert Harris serves as Professor of Bible at The Jewish Theological Seminary, where he teaches courses in biblical literature and commentary with specialized expertise in medieval Jewish biblical exegesis. His academic work bridges traditional Jewish interpretive methods with contemporary scholarly approaches to biblical texts. Dr. Harris's research focuses on the historical development of peshat (contextual) biblical interpretation within Jewish tradition. His scholarship examines how medieval commentators like Rashi, R. Joseph Kara, and Rashbam developed systematic approaches to textual analysis that shifted from earlier homiletic traditions. He investigates the Carolingian Revolution's influence on biblical exegesis and traces the evolution of interpretive methods from the 9th through 11th centuries. His recent publications demonstrate wide-ranging expertise across biblical theology, ritual practices, and textual analysis. Articles explore theological concepts in narratives like Balaam's story, the historical development of sacrificial practices from Temple times to contemporary observance, and unconventional interpretations of biblical passages. His work contributes significantly to understanding how Jewish scholars historically engaged with scripture. Dr. Harris has authored important scholarly works including Rabbi Eliezer of Beaugency, Commentaries on Amos and Jonah and Discerning Parallelism: A Study in Northern French Medieval Jewish Biblical Exegesis . His scholarship participates in contemporary dialogues within modern Orthodox communities regarding the integration of critical biblical studies with traditional approaches to scripture.

• Jewish Liturgical Poetry
• Piyyut
• Jewish Aramaic Poetry
• +3 more

Prof. Rabbi Laura Lieber serves as the Chair of Transregional Religious History at the University of Regensburg, Germany, where she specializes in Jewish liturgical traditions and poetry from late antiquity. Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in the History of Judaism from the University of Chicago and rabbinic ordination from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR) in Cincinnati. Dr. Lieber's research primarily focuses on Jewish liturgical poetry (piyyut), particularly from Late Antiquity. She examines how ancient Jewish poets interpreted biblical texts through liturgical compositions, with special attention to the works of Yannai (5th/6th century C.E.) and Yose ben Yose (4th century C.E.). Her scholarship bridges historical, linguistic, and theological approaches to understanding how Jewish communities expressed their religious identity through poetry. Her publications reveal a consistent interest in the intersection of biblical interpretation and liturgical practice, particularly how ancient synagogue poetry transformed scriptural narratives for communal worship. Her work spans multiple Jewish holidays including Passover, Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, and Shavuot, demonstrating how liturgical poetry shaped Jewish ritual experience across different historical periods. Dr. Lieber has authored significant scholarly works including Jewish Aramaic Poetry from Late Antiquity: Translations and Commentaries , A Vocabulary of Desire: The Song of Songs in the Early Synagogue , and Yannai on Genesis: An Invitation to Piyyut , establishing her as a leading authority in the field of ancient Jewish liturgical poetry.

Michael David LukasView profile

Assistant Professor

• Creative Writing
• Historical Fiction
• Jewish Literature
• +7 more

Michael David Lukas is an Assistant Professor at San Francisco State University, where he teaches creative writing and literature. He advises thesis students and is actively engaged in literary scholarship and public intellectual discourse. His academic home is likely within the College of Liberal & Creative Arts, Department of English. Education: Brown University, University of Maryland Lukas's research and writing focus on historical fiction, Jewish and Middle Eastern themes, intergenerational narratives, and cultural identity. His work explores the intersections of memory, religion, and storytelling across time and geography. He is particularly interested in how literature can build bridges between cultures and historical periods, as seen in his acclaimed novels The Oracle of Stamboul and The Last Watchman of Old Cairo . His recent nonfiction articles span topics from Talmudic reflection to personal essays on aging and identity, demonstrating a broad engagement with cultural, religious, and existential themes. These writings reflect a consistent interest in the human condition, diaspora, and the power of narrative to make sense of complex histories. Scientific and Literary Awards: Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature National Jewish Book Award in Fiction Prix Interallié for Foreign Fiction ALA’s Sophie Brody Medal Finalist, California Book Award Finalist, NCIBA Book of the Year Award Finalist, Harold U. Ribalow Prize Fulbright Scholar Lukas has received scholarships from the National Endowment for the Arts, Montalvo Arts Center, New York State Summer Writers’ Institute, Squaw Valley Community of Writers, and Elizabeth George Foundation. He has taught at the University of San Francisco, University of the Pacific, and 826 Valencia. He lives in Oakland and continues to publish in major outlets such as The New York Times , Wall Street Journal , and Slate . He is involved in literary mentorship and public engagement, offering manuscript consultation services. His work contributes to both academic and public conversations on literature, identity, and cultural memory.

• Jewish liturgy and theology
• Modern Halacha (Jewish religious law)
• Interreligious Dialogue
• +3 more

Dr. Annette Boeckler is a Researcher at the University of Bonn's Catholic Theological Faculty, specializing in systematic theology with a focus on Jewish liturgy, biblical interpretation, and interreligious dialogue. She holds advanced degrees including a PhD (2000) and has taught at institutions like the University of Mainz, Fribourg, and Zurich. Her research explores Jewish religious law (Halacha), contemporary liturgical practices, and comparative theology. She has published extensively on topics such as pandemic impacts on Jewish worship, feminist ritual innovations, and rabbinic exegesis traditions. Boeckler is also actively involved in interfaith initiatives and has been featured in media including Deutschlandfunk and SRF. Education: PhD in Theology (2000) Studies in Theology and Jewish Studies at Universities of Tübingen, Bern, and Cologne Additional training in Akkadian/Sumerian languages Research Interests: Jewish liturgical history, modern Halachic developments, comparative scriptural interpretation, and interreligious pedagogy. Her work bridges historical scholarship with contemporary applications in worship practices and community life. Awards: None explicitly listed, though her academic contributions have earned recognition through institutional appointments and international speaking engagements. Grants & Advising: Has advised doctoral candidates through rabbinic training programs at Leo Baeck College and supervised research projects on liturgical reform. Active in securing grants for comparative theology initiatives. Labs/Teams: Leads the International Center for Comparative Theology and Social Issues at Bonn, collaborating with institutions across Europe on projects analyzing religion's role in modern societies.

Itamar RosensweigView profile

Assistant Professor

• Jewish Law
• Medieval Jewish History
• Philosophy
• +4 more

Rabbi Itamar Rosensweig is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Yeshiva College and Chair of Jewish Studies at the Sy Syms School of Business. He holds Rabbinic Ordination (Yoreh Yoreh, Yadin Yadin) from Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS) and advanced degrees including a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Pennsylvania, MA in Philosophy from Columbia University, and PhD in Medieval Jewish History from YU’s Bernard Revel Graduate School. His roles include teaching Talmud at the Mazer Yeshiva Program and serving as a dayan at the Beth Din of America. Education highlights include a BA in Physics and Philosophy from Yeshiva University, followed by extensive graduate studies in philosophy and history. His research bridges Jewish Law (Halakha), medieval Jewish thought, and modern ethical dilemmas, with a focus on integrating legal theory, business ethics, and Talmudic analysis. Research interests emphasize Jewish Law’s interaction with modern contexts—such as political economy, business ethics, and distributive justice—alongside deep engagement with Talmudic methodology and medieval rabbinic sources. His publications explore topics like contractual obligations, rabbinic courts, tort law, and the ethical dimensions of poverty and property. Teaching includes advanced Talmud courses, philosophy modules on Kant and Rawls, and Jewish Business Law. He has held roles at Columbia University’s Kraft Center and Congregation Ahavath Torah, reflecting a dual commitment to academic rigor and communal engagement.

Katrin Kogman-AppelView profile

Professor

• Jewish Art History
• Medieval History
• Book History
• +3 more

Prof. Dr. Katrin Kogman-Appel is a Full Professor at the University of Münster, holding positions in the Department of Jewish Studies within the Faculty of Theology. She leads the Cluster of Excellence's projects A3-6 and B2-24, focusing on religious architecture transformation and medieval Jewish book culture. Her academic career includes roles as Full Professor and Deputy Dean at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (2011–2016) and extensive editorial and advisory roles in Jewish studies. Her research centers on Jewish art and book culture in the Middle Ages and Early Modern Period, particularly illuminated manuscripts and cultural exchange in Iberia. Key publications include studies on the Sarajevo Haggadah, Catalan maps, and medieval Jewish liturgical art. Notable awards include the Alexander von Humboldt Professorship (2015) and NRW Academy membership (2024). Teaching includes courses on premodern Jewish cultural history, medieval Jewish spaces, and Jewish visual culture. She advises doctoral students and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects like the Kennicott Bible study. Current research explores Hebrew book art in shared Iberian spaces and medieval diaspora visual cultures. Awards: Alexander von Humboldt Professorship (2015), NRW Academy Membership (2024), Bezalel Prize (2013) Grants: Principal Investigator for Cluster projects on religious architecture and book transitions She heads research teams at the Center for Religious Studies and collaborates with institutions like the Vatican Library and the Bodleian Library. Her work bridges art history, cultural studies, and religious scholarship.

Allen OrenView profile

Associate Professor

• Documentary Filmmaking
• Public Broadcasting
• Cultural History
• +7 more

Allen Oren is an Associate Professor in the Department of Media & Communication Arts at Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Pace University, where he teaches journalism and electronic media courses. He is based at the Pleasantville campus in Westchester, with his office in Room 225, Choate House. BA in Psychology, Queens College, CUNY MS in Magazine Writing, Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism His research and creative work focus on documentary filmmaking, particularly in cultural history, New York City heritage, and human-interest narratives with an emphasis on Jewish traditions and public broadcasting. His documentaries have aired nationally on PBS and have been recognized with multiple Emmy nominations. His recent creative works explore themes of silence, memory, and ritual, reflecting a deep engagement with both artistic storytelling and cultural preservation. These projects demonstrate a consistent focus on interdisciplinary media, blending journalism, history, and the arts. Selected Awards: Emmy winner, NYNATAS, 2001 Emmy nominations (2022, 2017, 2012 [two], 2004, 2001) Best TV Features, Press Club, 1999 Allen Oren has advised students through his role in journalism education and has contributed to curriculum development in public speaking, feature writing, and media arts. While specific grants are not listed, his nationally aired documentaries suggest external or institutional support for his creative research. He is actively involved in teaching core courses such as Public Speaking, History of Journalism, and Writing for Electronic Media. His work is closely tied to public media production, with creative output functioning as scholarly contributions in the field of media arts. He operates independently and collaboratively on documentary projects, often centered on historical and cultural themes relevant to American and Jewish identity.