Karen François

Karen François is a Professor at the Centre of Logic and Philosophy of Science (CLPS) at Brussels Free University (VUB), where she serves as Head of the Large Research Group CLEA-CLPS and has co-directed CLPS since 2018. She also directs the Doctoral School of Human Sciences at VUB since 2011 and acts as spokesperson for the Flanders Training Network for Methodology and Statistics (FLAMES) since 2016.

• Centre of Logic and Philosophy of Science (CLPS), Brussels Free University
• Director, Large Research Group CLEA-CLPS (2024-present)
• Co-Director, CLPS (2018-present)
• Director, Doctoral School of Human Sciences (2011-present)
• Spokesperson, FLAMES (2016-present)

Her research spans Philosophy of Science and Mathematics, Mathematics & Statistics Education, Mathematical and Statistical Literacy, Science and Society, Scientific Integrity, and Ethnomathematics. François explores how mathematical practices intersect with cultural contexts, social justice issues, and political dimensions, particularly through critical mathematics education approaches. She investigates how statistical data interpretation involves affective dimensions beyond purely cognitive processes and examines the implementation of local mathematical practices into formal curricula.

Her scholarly work reveals consistent themes in the politics of mathematics education, examining how mathematical knowledge production relates to power structures, cultural contexts, and social justice concerns. François demonstrates particular interest in how mathematical literacy can empower citizens to critically engage with statistical information in public discourse, especially regarding civic issues. Her research combines philosophical analysis with empirical classroom investigations.

• Belgian Society for Logic and Philosophy of Science Fellowship (2010)
• FWO travel grants (2008-2011) for research in Mexico, Canada, USA, and Istanbul
• h-index of 9 with 153 research outputs including 49 articles, 42 conference papers, and 32 book chapters

As Director of the Doctoral School of Human Sciences, François manages activities supporting PhD students across multiple Flemish universities. Her leadership in FLAMES demonstrates commitment to strengthening methodological and statistical training for early-career researchers. She has supervised numerous doctoral candidates, with thesis topics spanning feminist philosophy, ethics, mathematics education, and social justice. François also engages actively with public discourse through media contributions on topics including ethnomathematics, scientific integrity, and the societal role of mathematics.