Alison Shell is a Professor of Early Modern Studies at the Department of English Language and Literature, University College London , where she has been affiliated since 2010. Her work bridges literary analysis with religious and historical contexts, focusing on England's long Reformation and its cultural ramifications.
Role and Affiliation: Brian Brock is a Personal Chair in Moral and Practical Theology at the University of Aberdeen, within the School of Divinity, History, Philosophy & Art History. He joined Aberdeen in 2004 after postdoctoral studies at Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg and a DPhil in Christian Ethics from King’s College London. Education: DPhil in Christian Ethics, King’s College London (2003) MA in Christian Ethics, King’s College London (1999) Diploma in Theology, University of Oxford (1997) MA in Biomedical and Clinical Ethics, Loma Linda University (1996) BA in Biology, Colorado Christian University (1993) Research Interests: Brock’s work focuses on theological ethics, disability theology, and the intersection of Christian faith with contemporary cultural issues. His research explores disability rights, medical ethics, environmental sustainability, and the role of scripture in shaping ethical practices. He emphasizes practical theology’s role in grounding abstract doctrines in lived experience. Awards and Recognition: Best Postgraduate Research Supervisor, Aberdeen University Students’ Association (2022) Alumnus of the Year Award, Loma Linda University (2018) Advising and Grants: Brock has supervised over 30 PhD students, many of whom have published their work. He collaborates with institutions like the Centre for Spirituality, Health and Disability and the Centre for Autism and Theology. His research projects include studies on grave goods practices and neurodiversity in academic contexts. Labs/Teams: Active in interdisciplinary initiatives such as the Christian Ethics of Farmed Animal Welfare (CEFAW) and the Aberdeen Approach to Theological Ethics. He co-edits the T&T Clark Enquiries in Theological Ethics series and serves as Managing Editor of the Journal of Disability and Religion .
Tom Greggs holds the historic Marischal Chair of Divinity at the University of Aberdeen, established in 1616. As a leading theologian, he specializes in ecclesiology, Methodist studies, and post-Christendom theology. His research spans Barthian and Bonhoefferian influences, interfaith dialogue, and the role of the church in pluralistic societies. Greggs has authored influential works such as Barth and Bonhoeffer as Contributors to a Postliberal Ecclesiology and co-directs the Aberdeen Centre for Protestant Theology. Education: M.A. (Oxford), Ph.D. (Cambridge), D.Litt., P.G.C.E. (Dist.). Research Interests : Ecclesiological structures, Methodist theological tradition, Barthian systematics, scriptural reasoning, and theology beyond Christendom. His current projects include a three-volume Dogmatic Ecclesiology and a new Systematic Theology textbook. He explores themes like salvation, ecumenism, and the church’s role in global pluralism. Grants & Awards : British Academy Mid-Career Research Grant (£122,000), AHRC Network Grant (£35,000), Principal’s Prize for Outstanding Impact from Research, and Principal’s Prize for Best Postgraduate Supervisor. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and the Higher Education Academy. Professional Roles : Member of the World Council of Churches Faith and Order Commission, Patron of the Independent Schools Religious Studies Association, and former Head of Divinity (2018–2022). He also serves as a Methodist preacher and contributes to theological education through lectures and radio appearances. Key Projects : Leads the Impact of Doctrine after Christendom project and co-authored A Handbook for Scriptural Reasoning . His work on grave goods practices and faith-inclusive education reflects interdisciplinary interests.
Susannah Ticciati is Professor of Christian Doctrine at King's College London, affiliated with the Department of Theology & Religious Studies within the Faculty of Arts & Humanities. She holds a PhD in Theology from Cambridge University and has held research fellowships at Selwyn College, Cambridge before joining King's in 2005. Her research focuses on constructive Christian doctrinal theology with specializations in: Biblical hermeneutics (particularly Job and Pauline epistles) Apophatic theology emphasizing divine transcendence Scriptural Reasoning interfaith dialogue practices Historical theologians including Augustine and Karl Barth Theological anthropology and divine agency Her publications demonstrate consistent exploration of truth concepts across scriptures, with recent work examining Augustinian epistemology across 15+ peer-reviewed articles and monographs. Her current project focuses on Augustine's De Trinitate . She teaches Christian theology at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, supervising PhD candidates working at theology-biblical studies intersections. Her pedagogical approach integrates historical theology with contemporary hermeneutical challenges.
Jonathan K. Paulien is a Professor and Program Director in the School of Religion at Loma Linda University, specializing in Theological Studies. He holds a PhD from Andrews University and has been a leading figure in Adventist theological scholarship for decades. Position: Professor, Religion - Theological Studies School: School of Religion University: Loma Linda University Program Director: SR-Religion and Health, DSc Paulien earned his BA from Atlantic Union College (1972), MDiv from Andrews University (1975), and PhD from Andrews University (1987). His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to theological education within the Seventh-day Adventist tradition. His research interests center on biblical interpretation, particularly the Book of Revelation, New Testament theology, hermeneutics, and the writings of Ellen White. He explores themes such as the remnant, eschatology, Christology, and the relationship between faith and modernity. His recent publications continue to engage with contemporary theological and pastoral issues, including spirituality in healthcare. Paulien’s scholarly output includes numerous articles, book chapters, and reviews. His works often analyze apocalyptic literature through historical, literary, and theological lenses, contributing significantly to Adventist biblical scholarship. He has also engaged in public theology through presentations, sermons, and media appearances. Among his notable recognitions are active participation in major academic societies such as the Society of Biblical Literature and the Adventist Society for Religious Studies. He has served on influential committees including the Biblical Research Institute Committee of the General Conference and the North American Division Health Ministries Committee. Paulien has mentored students and chaired dissertation defenses, demonstrating his commitment to academic formation. He teaches courses such as Biblical Hermeneutics, New Testament Thought, and Dissertation Research, shaping the next generation of theologians. His service extends globally through international lectures, conferences, and interfaith dialogues, particularly in areas of Adventist-Muslim relations. He is involved in several institutional committees at Loma Linda University, including the Campus Spiritual Life Committee and the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness. His leadership roles have included Chair of the School of Religion Faculty and member of the Dean’s Council.
Professor Ben Quash is the inaugural Professor of Christianity and the Arts at King’s College London, part of the Department of Theology & Religious Studies. He holds a dual academic background in English Literature and Theology, with a PhD focusing on Hans Urs von Balthasar’s theological dramatic theory. Previously, he served as Dean and Fellow at Peterhouse, Cambridge, and Academic Director of the Cambridge Inter-Faith Programme (2004-2007). His research bridges Christian theology, the arts, and interfaith dialogue, emphasizing how visual, literary, and musical forms engage biblical and theological themes. Key roles include founding and directing the Centre for Arts & the Sacred (ASK) and leading the Visual Commentary on Scripture project. He teaches undergraduate and postgraduate modules on theology, art, and liturgy, including courses like Salvation and the City and Art as a Theological Medium . His work explores modernity’s impact on theology, the role of liturgy in shaping ethics, and the intersection of art with scriptural interpretation. Professor Quash’s media engagements include BBC broadcasts on topics like sacred spaces, Christian art’s legacy, and theological aesthetics. He has authored/co-edited over 60 publications, including Theology, Modernity and the Visual Arts (2024) and Visualising a Sacred City: London, Art and Religion (2016). Awards include the King’s Award for Excellence and Innovation in the Arts (2012).
Costantino Moretti is an Associate Professor at the French School of the Far East (EFEO), specializing in Medieval Chinese Buddhism and Dunhuang Studies. He holds the position of lecturer at EFEO and has been actively teaching courses on Chinese Buddhist manuscript traditions at institutions including the École pratique des hautes études (EPHE). His academic work bridges philological analysis with historical and cultural contexts of Buddhist practices in medieval China. Moretti received his BA in Chinese Language and Literature in 2001 from Ca' Foscari University in Venice, Italy. Following this, he was awarded a scholarship at Peking University (2002-2003) to deepen his knowledge of Chinese Buddhism, philology, and Dunhuang studies. He earned his MA (2005) and PhD (2010) in East Asian Studies (Chinese Buddhism) from the École pratique des hautes études, where he was subsequently appointed as an associate researcher (2010-2017). His research focuses on Chinese Buddhist apocryphal scriptures, Dunhuang manuscripts, mural paintings, and codicology. Moretti's scholarly work examines the history and philology of Medieval Chinese Buddhism with particular attention to textual transmission, manuscript production, and Buddhist iconography. His expertise spans both textual analysis and material culture studies of Buddhist manuscripts. Moretti's publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on Dunhuang manuscripts, Buddhist apocrypha, and the material aspects of Buddhist texts. His work spans textual analysis, codicology, and iconographic studies, revealing the complex interplay between religious doctrine, manuscript production, and cultural transmission along the Silk Road. Recent publications show increasing attention to textual errors, layout features, and organizational principles in Buddhist manuscripts. Robert H.N. Ho Family Foundation Professor of Medieval Chinese Buddhism (2017-2021) PSL University Research Grant for 'Buddhist Religious Names and Titles in the Dunhuang Manuscripts' (2016-2018) Peking University Scholarship (2002-2003) Moretti has been actively involved in organizing scientific events, including an annual cycle of lectures with Professor Kuo Liying as part of a collaborative program with the Dunhuang Academy. He has participated in various research projects led by the Center for Research on East Asian Civilizations (CRCAO) since 2010 and is currently completing an annotated French translation of the 'Traité du bouddhisme et du taoïsme' from the Dynastic History of the Wei Dynasty. He also serves as sub-editor for entries concerning medieval Chinese manuscripts from Dunhuang for the Encyclopaedia of Manuscript Cultures in Asia and Africa (EMCAA).
Rev Dr Robert Ombres OP serves as an Official Fellow and Lector at Blackfriars Hall, University of Oxford, teaching moral theology and canon law while holding the Raymond of Penyafort Fellowship. He concurrently teaches canon law at the Pontifical University of St Thomas in Rome and contributes as reviews editor for New Blackfriars and editorial board member for Angelicum , Law & Justice , and Ecclesiastical Law Journal . His academic credentials include an LL.B. from Bristol University, LL.M. from London University, STL in philosophy and theology from the Oxford Study House, and doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical University of St Thomas in Rome. He previously served as Prior of Cambridge and Oxford priories and Procurator General of the Dominican Order (2004-2011). Ombres' research centers on moral theology and canon law , with emphases on ecclesiastical jurisprudence, divine law foundations, and church governance structures. His work critically examines clergy rights, sacramental validity, and the historical evolution of Catholic canon law, particularly through Thomistic frameworks and Dominican traditions. Key themes include the intersection of theology and legal systems, national church autonomy, and liturgical theology. Analysis of his publications reveals consistent exploration of canon law's theological underpinnings since the 1980s, with recent focus on synodal governance, diocesan clerics' rights, and Aquinas' divine law theory. His scholarship bridges historical analysis (e.g., Dominican history in medieval Cambridge) with contemporary applications in ecumenism, family theology, and church-state relations. No scientific awards are documented, though his editorial roles and Raymond of Penyafort Fellowship signify professional recognition within theological and canon law circles. Information regarding student advising, research grants, or laboratory affiliations is absent from the source material. His institutional roles are exclusively tied to academic and editorial functions within the Dominican Order and university settings. Ombres maintains active engagement with the Dominican Order (OP), having held leadership positions including Prior of Oxford/Cambridge priories and Order Procurator General. His work remains centered on Blackfriars Hall's academic mission and Rome-based pontifical university collaborations.
Marian Szczepan Machinek is a Full Professor in the Department of Moral Theology and Family Studies at the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland. His work bridges theological reflection with contemporary ethical challenges, focusing on moral theology, bioethics, and family studies. Current Position: Full Professor at University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn Research Areas: Theology, Ethics, Bioethics, Family Studies Key Themes: Moral autonomy, dialogue between faith and science, ecological spirituality, reproductive ethics, and end-of-life issues Machinek's research explores the intersection of Christian ethics with modern dilemmas, including transhumanism, euthanasia, and reproductive technologies. He has published extensively in theological and ethical journals, emphasizing the importance of conscience and moral responsibility in both personal and societal contexts. His publications highlight a critical engagement with Pope Francis's initiatives (e.g., Laudato Si' ), debates on Amoris Laetitia , and the theological implications of medical advancements. With over 30 publications and a Google Scholar H-index of 5, his work garners interdisciplinary attention. Students under his supervision include doctoral candidates in moral theology and bioethics, reflecting his commitment to mentoring future scholars in integrating theological principles with contemporary ethical discourse. Machinek is actively involved in academic networks, collaborating with institutions in Poland and internationally. His expertise extends to hospital ethics committees and palliative care frameworks, rooted in Catholic theological traditions.
Dr. Heath A. Thomas serves as the 16th President of Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) since 2020, concurrently holding the title of Professor of Old Testament. Previously, he was dean of the Hobbs College of Theology and Ministry and associate vice president for church relations. He holds a B.A. in English Literature (OBU, 1998), M.A. in Theology (Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary), and a Ph.D. in Old Testament (University of Gloucestershire, UK). His academic leadership includes roles at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Baylor University's leadership program. Thomas specializes in Old Testament theology, biblical hermeneutics, and interdisciplinary approaches to Scripture. His research focuses on prophetic literature (especially Habakkuk and Lamentations), divine violence, creation care ethics, and theological interpretation methodologies. Notable works include Faith Amid the Ruins: The Book of Habakkuk , co-authored A Manifesto for Theological Interpretation , and commentaries on Samuel and Isaiah-Ezekiel. His publications span peer-reviewed articles in Currents in Biblical Research , Vetus Testamentum , and Bulletin for Biblical Research , alongside edited volumes addressing holy war in the Bible and lamentation studies. He actively bridges scholarly exegesis with pastoral and missional applications, emphasizing Christ-centered engagement with Scripture. Awards and recognition are not explicitly listed, but his influence is evident through academic appointments and prolific writing. Thomas advocates for holistic theological education, integrating biblical scholarship with practical ministry and ethical stewardship of creation.
Michael C. Magree, S.J. is an Assistant Professor in the Theology Department at Boston College. His research focuses on ascetical theology, early Christian exegesis, and the theological interpretation of Scripture, with particular expertise in patristic Christology and trinitarian doctrine. He holds a Ph.D. in Theology from the University of Notre Dame and has published widely on early Christian thought. Education: B.A. in Philosophy/Classics (Franciscan U. of Steubenville), M.A. in Classics (Ohio State), M.A. in Philosophical Resources (Fordham), M.Div. and S.T.L. (Boston College). His recent work explores themes of kenosis in early Christian theology, patristic exegesis of scriptural terms like 'prosōpon', and the intersection of apocalyptic thought in Origen's writings. He contributed to Studia Patristica on Cyril and Theodoret's Christological disputes.
Jennifer Newsome Martin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Theology and Program of Liberal Studies at the University of Notre Dame, serving as Director of the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture. She holds a Ph.D. in Systematic Theology from Notre Dame, with research focused on Catholic and Eastern Orthodox theology, theological aesthetics, and the intersection of faith with literature and art. Her work bridges historical theology, continental philosophy, and contemporary cultural critique. Her notable achievements include the 2017 Manfred Lautenschlaeger Award for Theological Promise and the 2019 Frank O’Malley Teaching Award. She has authored acclaimed works like Hans Urs von Balthasar and the Critical Appropriation of Russian Religious Thought and co-edited volumes such as An Apocalypse of Love . Her research interests span 19th-20th century Catholic theology, French feminism, and the theological significance of art and literature. She serves on editorial boards for Communio , Theological Studies , and the University of Notre Dame Press , and actively contributes to ecumenical dialogue and Catholic intellectual life. Dr. Martin teaches courses on theology, ethics, and the liberal arts, advising numerous graduate and undergraduate students. Her recent articles explore topics like Bergson’s influence on ressourcement theology, the interplay of art and sacramentality, and Paul Claudel’s theological poetics.
Piotr Herok is an Assistant Professor of Sacred Scripture at the Faculty of Theology, University of Opole, Poland. He holds advanced theological degrees from the University of Opole (STM), John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (STL), Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome (SSL, SSD), and specializes in Synoptic Gospels and Old Testament studies. Education: STM (University of Opole), STL (Lublin), SSL/SSD (Rome), and canon law studies at Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University of Warsaw. Research Focus: Divine violence in biblical texts, Christological interpretations, intertextuality between Daniel 7 and Psalm 110, and canonical law. His publications analyze theological themes in the Gospel of Matthew, including marked psalm quotations, summary statements, and citations like Psalm 78:2. He also explores Lutheran composers' Magnificat settings and Martin Luther’s Marian theology. Academic metrics include a total ministerial score of 890, with low h-index and citation metrics reflecting specialized theological research outputs. Contact: piotr.herok@uni.opole.pl .
Zhiru Ng is a Professor in the Department of Religious Studies at Pomona College, where she has been a faculty member since 2000. Her research and teaching focus on Chinese Buddhist history, art, and religious practices, particularly the cult of Dizang (Jizo) Bodhisattva and the interplay between texts and images in Buddhist traditions. Her academic background includes a Ph.D. from the University of Arizona, an M.A. from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and a B.A. from the National University of Singapore. Ph.D., University of Arizona M.A., University of Michigan, Ann Arbor B.A., National University of Singapore Dr. Ng's research interests span Chinese Buddhist history, Buddhist art, Dizang Bodhisattva, cross-cultural Buddhist interactions, and modern Taiwanese Buddhism. She explores how Buddhist doctrines are materialized in art and ritual, and how religious diversity is navigated in Chinese intellectual history. Her work bridges textual analysis with visual and material culture, offering deep insights into the lived dimensions of East Asian Buddhism. The trend in her scholarly publications reflects a sustained engagement with medieval Chinese Buddhist cults, scriptural authority, healing practices, and the visual representation of doctrine. Her articles and book chapters examine the evolution of savior bodhisattvas, the integration of Indian Buddhist traditions in China, and the dynamics of religious diversity. She frequently contributes to major academic presses and journals in Buddhist and Asian studies. Her scientific awards and honors include: Outstanding Global Bhikṣunī Award, Taiwan (2016) Outstanding Women in Buddhism Award, Bangkok (2010) Visiting Research Fellow, University of Heidelberg (2012) Senior Fellow, Harvard University Center for the Study of World Religions (2003–04) Chiang Ching-kuo Foundation Scholar Grant (2008–09) Graves Award for Excellence in Teaching (2004–05) Dr. Ng has advised various academic projects and secured research grants from foundations such as the Chiang Ching-kuo Foundation and Harvard’s Center for the Study of World Religions. While no formal lab or research team is mentioned, her collaborative work with institutions like the Kuroda Institute and participation in international research projects indicate active scholarly networks. She teaches courses on East Asian religions, the Lotus Sutra, death and afterlife, and the life of the Buddha through art and text.
Mante Lenkaityte Ostermann is a Senior Researcher in the Department of Patristics and Church History at the Faculty of Theology, University of Fribourg. She has been affiliated with the University of Fribourg since 2007, initially as a graduate assistant, then as a doctoral assistant and lecturer, and currently as a researcher working on significant Swiss National Science Foundation (FNS) projects. Dr. Lenkaityte Ostermann earned her doctoral degree in Classical Philology from Vilnius University in 2007. Her academic journey has been deeply rooted in patristic studies and early Christian history, with a particular focus on Late Antiquity. Her research expertise spans several interconnected areas within early Christian studies. She specializes in ancient monastic literature, with particular attention to figures like Eucher of Lyon and John Cassian, as well as monastic rules. Her work also examines canonical sources and patristic exegesis, exploring how early Christian writers interpreted scripture. A significant portion of her recent research investigates the complex dynamics of religious identities and cohabitation in Late Antiquity, examining how different religious communities interacted, competed, and sometimes shared spaces during this transformative period. Her scholarly approach combines textual analysis with historical contextualization to reveal the nuanced ways religious identities were constructed and maintained. Dr. Lenkaityte Ostermann's extensive publication record demonstrates a consistent scholarly trajectory focused on the intersection of religious identity, textual interpretation, and communal practices in early Christianity. Her work reveals particular expertise in analyzing how early Christian writers constructed religious boundaries while simultaneously engaging with surrounding cultural and religious contexts. She has made significant contributions to understanding the development of monastic spirituality and its relationship to broader ecclesiastical structures, particularly through her examination of key texts like the Opus imperfectum in Matthaeum. Dr. Lenkaityte Ostermann has been actively involved in major research projects funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. She was a member of the FNS-Eccellenza project on religious competition in Late Antiquity (2019-2022), directed by Assistant Professor Francesco Massa. Currently, she is contributing to another FNS project directed by Professor Franz Mali, which focuses on preparing the critical edition, French translation, and commentary of the anonymous work Opus imperfectum in Matthaeum .