John Behr

Rev. Prof. John Behr holds the Regius Chair in Humanity at the University of Aberdeen, appointed in 2020. Previously, he served as Dean of St Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary (1995–2017) and held the Father Georges Florovsky Distinguished Professorship. His work bridges patristic scholarship and contemporary theology, focusing on early Christian thought, Nicaean theology, and theological anthropology. He earned a D.Phil. (Oxford) and D.D. (Melbourne).

Research interests include the theology of Irenaeus, Origen, and Gregory of Nyssa, with a focus on Christology, asceticism, and the Council of Nicaea. His major works include The Mystery of Christ (2006), Becoming Human (2013), and critical editions of Origen’s On First Principles (2017). His recent articles explore Nicaean legacy, patristic exegesis, and theological responses to modern challenges.

His publications reflect engagement with ecumenical dialogue, biblical hermeneutics, and the intersection of science and faith. Behr’s academic leadership includes directing theology programs and editing series like the Popular Patristics. His contributions emphasize the continuity of early Christian tradition with contemporary theological discourse.