Sarah Lebock

Sarah Lebock, MA is a Scientific Associate and Managing Director at the Center for Comparative Theology and Cultural Studies (ZeKK) at the University of Paderborn, where she also works with the Paderborn Institute for Islamic Theology. She holds multiple academic and administrative roles including Head of the Buddhism working group at ZeKK, Course Manager for Theologies in Dialogue, and Study Advisor for Buddhist Studies.

Her academic background includes:

• Doctoral studies at University of Paderborn since 09/2021
• ZFMA program 'Kultur und Gesellschaft' with focus on Christian-Buddhist studies (graduated with distinction, 1.0)
• ZFBA program 'Germanistische Sprachwissenschaften/Philosophie' (graduated with distinction)
• Postgraduate Master of Counseling at KatHO NRW since 09/2021

Sarah's research centers on Comparative Theology, particularly exploring hermeneutic reflection in interreligious contexts. Her doctoral project examines Gadamer and Hegel's contributions to comparative theology. She specializes in Christian-Buddhist dialogue, criteriology of interreligious judgment, and the relationship between philosophical hermeneutics and dialectics. Her work bridges German and Japanese philosophical traditions, with particular attention to thinkers like Nishida Kitarō. She also contributes to writing didactics and consulting approaches in academic settings.

Her publication record demonstrates consistent output across philosophy, comparative theology, and educational approaches. Her works show a trajectory from her early interest in Japanese philosophy through to contemporary applications in interreligious dialogue and academic counseling. The publications reveal her dual expertise in theoretical philosophy and practical educational contexts.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• Preis der Bremer AG für herausragende Abschlussarbeiten (2018) for her distinguished bachelor's thesis

As Managing Director of ZeKK, Sarah coordinates public relations work and organizes city-wide events in Paderborn focused on peace and remembrance culture. She serves as academic staff in the Graduate Center of the Faculty of Cultural Studies and provides guidance to students through her role as Study Advisor. Her organizational work includes coordinating the International Meetings on Comparative Theology and various academic workshops.

Sarah is actively engaged with multiple scholarly communities through memberships in the Gesellschaft für interkulturelle Philosophie, Hans-Georg Gadamer-Gesellschaft, Netzwerk Hermeneutik und Interpretationstheorie, and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Philosophie, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach that connects theology, philosophy, and cultural studies.