Rachell Powell

Rachell Powell is a Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Center for Philosophy & History of Science at Boston University. She holds a PhD and MS from Duke University, a JD from New York University, and a B.A. from SUNY Binghamton. Her research spans two main themes: conceptual/methodological problems in evolutionary theory and ethical dimensions of biosciences. Notable works include Contingency and Convergence (MIT Press, 2020) and The Evolution of Moral Progress (Oxford University Press, 2018).

Education:

• B.A. in Philosophy (summa cum laude), SUNY Binghamton (1999)
• Juris Doctor (with honors), NYU Law School (2002)
• PhD in Philosophy and MS in Biology, Duke University (2009)

Research Interests:

• Evolutionary theory, including macroevolution and human evolution
• Philosophy of medicine, bioethics, and legal/political philosophy
• Emerging topics like human germline modification and cognitive enhancement

Her future work explores trauma psychology and its intersections with gender/sexuality. She has held fellowships at Oxford University, the National Humanities Center, and others.

Grants & Awards:

• Principal Investigator for grants from NEH, Templeton World Charity Foundation, and Mellon Foundation
• Prior fellowships include Arts and Humanities Research Council, James Martin Research, and Greenwall Postdoctoral