معرفی
Dr Caroline Starkey is an Associate Professor of Religion and Society at the School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science, University of Leeds. Her research explores religion and spirituality in contemporary Britain, with a focus on Buddhism, gender, space, and alternative spiritual practices.
Educational Background:
- PhD in Religion and Society (University of Leeds, 2015)
- MA in Religion and Public Life (University of Leeds, 2008)
- MA in Social Work (University of Hull, 2003)
- BA in History (University of York, 1999)
Her work examines the adaptation of Asian-origin religions in Britain, particularly Buddhism, through themes like gender ordination, monastic transitions, and built religious landscapes. She co-led a national survey of Buddhist and Jain buildings in England with Professor Emma Tomalin and collaborates with Professor Grace Davie on Church of England attitudes toward sexuality.
Current projects include Weekday Worldviews, analyzing psychic event participation and wellbeing in England, and ongoing investigations into Buddhist spaces and secular mindfulness. Her publications span Buddhist gender studies, digital counter-publics, and religion’s societal role.
Professional Affiliations:
- British Sociological Association (SocRel)
- American Academy of Religion (Co-Chair, Buddhism in the West Unit)
- UK Association for Buddhist Studies
- Centre for Religion and Public Life
- Gender Research Group, University of Leeds
Dr Starkey supervises PhD students including Chrissie Thwaites, Laura Wallace, and Bethan Juliet Oake. She leads the Liberal Arts program and teaches social scientific approaches to religion at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
