Cornelia Richter

Prof. Cornelia Richter is a Professor of Systematic Theology and Hermeneutics at the Protestant Theological Faculty of the University of Bonn since 2012. She serves as Chair of the Senate of the University of Bonn since 2024 and has held leadership roles such as Dean of the Faculty of Protestant Theology (2020–2024). Born in 1970, she earned her doctorate (summa cum laude) from the University of Marburg in 2002 and habilitation in 2010. Her research focuses on Philosophy of Religion, Hermeneutics, and Resilience in Religion and Spirituality, notably leading the DFG-funded project FOR 2686. She has held visiting professorships in Zurich and Giessen and contributed to theology through editorial roles in journals like International Journal of Philosophy and Theology. Her work bridges theology with interdisciplinary studies, addressing modern challenges like pandemic resilience and interfaith dialogue.

Education:

• PhD (2002), Habilitation (2010) – University of Marburg
• Studies in Protestant Theology and Philosophy – Universities of Vienna and Munich
• Research Fellowship – Center for Subjectivity Research, Copenhagen (2003–2005)

Research Interests:

Her work explores hermeneutical approaches to religious meaning, resilience in crises, and the interplay between theology and modern challenges. Key areas include:
- Critical analysis of resilience frameworks in theology and philosophy
- Theological engagement with modern existential issues (e.g., hope, fear, powerlessness)
- Interdisciplinary dialogue on religion’s role in human sciences.
- Resilience studies in healthcare and pandemic contexts.

Grants & Projects:

• DFG-FOR 2686 “Resilience in Religion and Spirituality” (2019–2022)
• Editorial leadership in multiple theological journals and book series
• Co-director of the Bonn Institute of Hermeneutics

Labs/Teams: Department of Systematic Theology, University of Bonn; interdisciplinary research groups on resilience and theology.