Karen Michelle Barad

Karen Michelle Barad is a Distinguished Professor of History of Consciousness at the University of California, Santa Cruz, with an affiliation in Philosophy. She holds a PhD in theoretical particle physics from SUNY Stony Brook and transitioned from a physics department to interdisciplinary academic work. Her research bridges quantum physics, feminist theory, and poststructuralist philosophy, focusing on agential realism, intra-action, and science justice.

• Education: PhD in Theoretical Particle Physics (SUNY Stony Brook)
• Affiliations: Science & Justice Research Center, Director of Science & Justice Graduate Training Program

Research interests include feminist science studies, decolonial frameworks, multispecies studies, and the ethical-political implications of quantum theory. Her seminal work Meeting the Universe Halfway redefines ontological and epistemological paradigms through quantum physics. Awards include an honorary doctorate from Gothenburg University (2016) and the Kresge College Teaching Award.

Her articles explore themes like nuclear colonialism, spacetime entanglements, and justice-to-come. Key grants include NSF funding for science justice training programs. She co-directs the Science & Justice Research Center, fostering collaborations between STEM and humanities scholars.