Christopher Miller

Christopher Miller serves as Vice President of Academic Affairs and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at Arihanta Institute, with leadership roles including Co-Chair of the Yoga in Theory and Practice Unit at the American Academy of Religion. His work bridges classical Indian traditions with urgent contemporary issues through rigorous academic scholarship and practical application.

His academic credentials include:

• PhD in Study of Religion from UC Davis (2018)
• MA in Study of Religion from UC Davis (2016)
• MA in Comparative Theology from Loyola Marymount University (2013)
• BS in Accounting from Loyola Marymount University (2003)

Miller's research centers on the intersection of Jain and Yoga studies with environmental ethics and social engagement. He pioneers 'engaged Jainism'—applying ancient principles like ahiṃsā (non-violence) to modern crises including climate change and animal ethics. His scholarship examines transnational yoga practices through embodied dimensions like diet, sound, and breath, while developing contemplative pedagogies that transform ecological consciousness. He actively promotes intra- and inter-religious dialogue on veganism and sustainability within religious frameworks.

Analysis of his publications reveals a decisive trajectory toward practical applications of Indian philosophy. Early work established foundations in transnational yoga studies, while recent output demonstrates intensified focus on environmental crisis response, particularly through Jain ecological thought. His scholarship consistently connects textual analysis with real-world implications, evidenced by growing attention to climate mitigation, species ethics, and community-based sustainability models across monographs, edited volumes, and interdisciplinary articles.

Key recognition includes:

• Mellon Indian Ocean Worlds Travel, Research and Writing Grant (2015-2018) supporting his dissertation 'Embodying Transnational Yoga'

Miller's grant acquisition demonstrates capacity for competitive research funding, though current projects appear primarily book-focused given his active editorial pipeline. While no doctoral students are listed, his role as academic administrator at Arihanta Institute involves mentoring through institutional leadership and course development. His forthcoming edited volumes suggest expanding influence in engaged religious studies.

As Vice President of Academic Affairs, Miller shapes institutional programming at Arihanta Institute though specific research teams aren't documented. His leadership in the American Academy of Religion's Yoga unit indicates broader academic community engagement beyond campus boundaries.