Katherine A. Brading

Katherine A. Brading is a Professor of Philosophy and Chair of the Department of Philosophy at Duke University's Trinity College of Arts & Sciences. She has held the Professorship since 2017 and assumed the department chair role in 2022. Her academic journey includes a B.S. from King's College London (1992), a B.A. from the University of Oxford (1996), and a Ph.D. from the University of Oxford (2003).

Her research focuses on the intersection of philosophy and theoretical physics, particularly exploring how physics contributes to philosophical inquiry. Her work spans from the 16th century to the present, emphasizing theories of matter, space, time, and scientific methodologies. Notable projects include a book re-telling the history of philosophy through the lens of physics, and studies on figures like Newton, Emmy Noether, and Émilie Du Châtelet.

Recent publications highlight her analysis of Newtonian mechanics, Noether's theorems, and historical debates on motion. Her work often bridges historical and contemporary scientific thought, questioning disciplinary boundaries and metaphysical assumptions. She has secured grants such as the 'Problem of Bodies from Newton to Kant' (2017–2019).

Brading has been featured in Duke news for her contributions to women's history in science and her reflections on academic challenges. She collaborates with institutions like Harvard University and New York University, advancing interdisciplinary dialogue in philosophy of science.