David C. Albertson

David C. Albertson serves as Associate Professor of Religion at the University of Southern California (USC), where he has been a faculty member since 2007. His academic work bridges historical theology, philosophy, and the history of science with a specialized focus on medieval intellectual traditions.

Education:

• Stanford University (undergraduate degree)
• University of Chicago (graduate degree)
• Thomas-Institut für mittelalterliche Philosophie at Universität zu Köln (postgraduate research)

Albertson's research centers on mathematical theology in medieval contexts, particularly examining Nicholas of Cusa's legacy and Neopythagorean influences on Christian thought. His work explores how geometric and arithmetic models shaped theological concepts of the Trinity, divine contemplation, and cosmology from the 12th through 16th centuries. Current projects include studies on geometrical icons in Renaissance Christian humanism (1300–1600) and the role of geometry in ancient Christian contemplation.

Key scholarly contributions:

• Analysis of Thierry of Chartres' arithmetic commentaries as sources for Cusanus
• Recovery of eclipsed arithmetic models in Victorine mysticism
• Synthesis of Pythagorean number theory in Latin Christian theology

Awards and Recognition:

• Manfred Lautenschlaeger Award (Universität Heidelberg)
• Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowship
• National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship
• American Council of Learned Societies Fellowship
• Huntington Library Fellowship

Albertson maintains active leadership in scholarly communities as past president of the American Cusanus Society and current member of the Wissenschaftliche Beirat for the Cusanus-Gesellschaft. His research has been supported by major funding bodies including the NEH, ACLS, and Huntington Library, reflecting the significance of his contributions to medieval studies. He is preparing two forthcoming publications: an edited volume on Nicholas of Cusa's modern reception and a monograph on geometry in ancient Christian contemplation.