Elisabeth Loos

Elisabeth Loos is a Researcher at the Institute for Systematic Theology and Philosophy of Religion under the Faculty of Theology at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg. Her work bridges synthetic biology, astrobiology, and theological inquiry, focusing on interdisciplinary dialogues about life concepts, scientific ethics, and societal implications.

• Doctoral scholarship from Evangelisches Studienwerk Villigst (2013–2017)
• Advisors: Prof. em. Dr. Matthias Petzoldt (Systematic Theology) and Prof. Dr. Christian Wilhelm (Plant Physiology)

Her research explores tensions between scientific advancements in synthetic biology and theological interpretations of life. Key themes include the uniqueness of life, extraterrestrial life debates, and the interplay between natural explanation and spiritual meaning.

Publications highlight her interdisciplinary approach, analyzing synthetic biology’s philosophical and ethical challenges and participating in international conferences like the 16th ESSSAT Conference in Lodz (2016) and workshops at the Center of Theological Inquiry in Princeton (2017).

Scientific Awards:

• Doctoral Scholarship, Evangelisches Studienwerk Villigst

She has also presented at academic events in Leipzig, Munich, Wittenberg, and Zurich, addressing topics like 'Religionless East Germany' and 'Human Uniqueness in Science and Theology.'