Perry Schmidt-Leukel

Perry Schmidt-Leukel is a Seniorprofessor at the University of Münster in the Department of Religious Studies and Intercultural Theology and a Visiting Professor at Paris Lodron University Salzburg (March-August 2024). Previously, he served as Professor of Religious Studies and Intercultural Theology (2009-2023) and Director of the Institute for Religious Studies and Inter-Faith Theology at the University of Münster. He has held academic positions at the University of Glasgow and the University of Munich.

Education:

• Habilitation in Fundamental Theology, Ecumenical Theology, Religious Studies (University of Munich, 1996)
• Doctor of Theology (University of Munich, 1990)
• Magister Artium in Philosophy (University of Munich, 1984)
• Diploma in Catholic Theology (University of Munich, 1982)
• Abitur (1973)

His research focuses on religious diversity, inter-faith theology, and Buddhist-Christian dialogue, developing innovative frameworks like fractal interpretations of religious pluralism. He explores resources for pluralism within major religions and advances interreligious theology as a distinct academic discipline.

Recent publications (2021-2024) demonstrate three key trends: 1) Application of fractal geometry to model religious diversity, 2) Comparative analyses of Buddhist and Christian theological concepts, and 3) Critical engagement with religious pluralism through figures like John Hick. His works frequently bridge theology, mathematics, and interfaith studies.

Awards and Honors:

• Frederick J. Streng Award (2020)
• CMA Book Award (2020)
• Höffmann Academic Award (2019)
• Opus magnum (2016)
• Gifford Lectures (2015)

He leads major research initiatives including the Cluster of Excellence project "Structures and Patterns of Religious Diversity" and previously directed the Center for Religious Studies (2018-2022). As President of the European Network of Buddhist-Christian Studies, he coordinates international interfaith scholarship.