Mary-Gabrielle Roth-Mouthon serves as a Research Fellow in the Department of Biblical Studies at the Faculty of Theology, University of Fribourg, contributing to academic research and teaching within biblical scholarship. Her research centers on Biblical Studies with specialized focus on textual analysis of the Old and New Testaments, hermeneutical methodologies, and historical-critical examination of religious narratives. This work integrates theological frameworks with interdisciplinary approaches to scriptural interpretation.
Dr. Brandon Watson serves as a Research Associate in the Department of Systematic Theology at the Faculty of Protestant Theology, University of Münster. He completed his doctoral studies (Dr. theol.) at Heidelberg University (2018-2022) with a dissertation on Karl Barth's Trinitarian Ontology of Faith. Currently pursuing his habilitation under Professor Hans-Peter Großhans with the working title 'Religious Language, Metaphor and Narrative: The Quest for (Self-)Discovery,' Watson has established himself as a significant scholar in contemporary theological discourse. PhD (Dr. theol.) from Heidelberg University (2018-2022) MA and MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary (2014-2018) BA in Humanities from The College at Southwestern Seminary (2009-2014) Watson's research focuses on metaphor and religious language, faith and ontology, hermeneutics, and philosophy of religion. His work demonstrates deep engagement with Karl Barth's theology, particularly examining Barth's understanding of faith, salvation, and divine ontology. He has developed a distinctive approach to theological language that explores how metaphor functions in religious discourse and contributes to theological understanding. His scholarship bridges systematic theology with philosophical inquiry, particularly in the area of theological ontology. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent focus on Karl Barth's theology, with particular attention to Barth's understanding of faith, salvation, and divine ontology. His work demonstrates increasing sophistication in handling complex theological concepts while maintaining accessibility. Watson's publications span multiple languages and appear in both German and international theological journals, showing his ability to contribute to theological discourse across cultural boundaries. His interdisciplinary approach incorporates insights from philosophy, biblical studies, and cultural analysis. Watson is actively involved in several academic societies: Karl Heim Gesellschaft (since 2019) Scripture and Theology (Chair since 2019) European Academy of Religion (EuARe) (since 2018) Karl Barth Society of North America (since 2017) Presbyterian Church (USA) (Ordination candidate since 2017) He teaches multiple seminars at the University of Münster, including introductory courses on systematic theology, hermeneutics, and specialized seminars on Eberhard Jüngel's theology and Paul Tillich's work. His teaching reflects his research interests while providing students with foundational knowledge in systematic theology. Watson also presents regularly at international conferences, demonstrating his active engagement with the global theological community.
Prof. Roland E. Fischer serves as Rector of Friedensau Adventist University since 2016 and teaches Practical Theology at the institution. An ordained Seventh-day Adventist pastor since 1988, he holds a doctorate in Religious Studies from the University of Bayreuth (2007) and brings extensive pastoral counseling experience to his academic role. His educational journey spans Marienhöhe Seminary (Darmstadt), Andrews University (USA), and Friedensau Adventist University. Key milestones include: Adventist Theology studies at Marienhöhe Seminary Advanced theological training at Andrews University Doctoral research at University of Bayreuth Ordination and pastoral ministry (1988) Fischer's research centers on Pastoral Theology and Homiletics within Adventist contexts, with specialized focus on pastor training, sermon analysis, eschatological preaching, and Bible study methodologies. His work critically examines gender dynamics in Adventist theology and integrates performance theory into homiletic practice, revealing how humor and theatrical elements enhance religious communication. Recent publications increasingly address volunteer ministry structures in free churches and contemporary challenges in congregational leadership. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications shows dominant trends in Adventist identity negotiation, practical sermon evaluation frameworks, and the intersection of eschatology with everyday pastoral practice. His scholarship consistently bridges academic theology and church application, particularly through assessment methodologies for ministerial interns and cross-cultural preaching analysis. Prof. Fischer actively mentors pastoral interns and appraises doctoral dissertations externally, including works on Adventist ecclesiology in Pentecostal contexts (Wogu, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam) and educational philosophy in Austrian Adventist institutions (Müller, University of Vienna). His teaching portfolio spans Bachelor's courses in Homiletics and Master's programs in Pastoral Theology, Church Sociology, and Worship Leadership.
Jeremy W. Johnston is a part-time Adjunct Lecturer in History at Redeemer University, specializing in American History, Western Civilization, and Classical Studies. He holds an M.Ed. (2017), B.Ed. (2002), and BA (2001) from the University of Western Ontario. His teaching includes courses like A World at War: The Turbulent 20th Century and History of the US: From Colony to Superpower . Education: M.Ed. (2017), Curriculum and Pedagogy, University of Western Ontario B.Ed. (2002), English and History, University of Western Ontario BA (Honours) (2001), English and History, University of Western Ontario Jeremy’s research spans interdisciplinary fields including Christianity and the arts, Anglo-Saxon/Medieval literature, and 20th-century Christian thinkers like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. His recent publications focus on literary analysis, theological aesthetics, and educational philosophy, with a particular emphasis on Christian cultural engagement. His scientific awards include the Teaching Excellence Award (2002) and multiple academic honors from the University of Western Ontario (1998-1999). He has authored three books and served as an arts columnist for Barnabas magazine over a decade.
Anja Block is a research assistant (academic title: Researcher ) at the Chair of Old Testament Exegesis and Theology within the Protestant Theological Faculty of the University of Bonn . Born in 1991, Wermelskirchen Magistra Theologiae (2019) from the Evangelical Church in the Rhineland Doctoral candidate in Old Testament studies: 'Wisdom and Torah – Psalm 119 in the context of the Psalter' Her research focuses on the interplay between Torah and Wisdom Literature in the Hebrew Bible, with a specialization in Psalm 119 analysis. She explores theological frameworks, linguistic patterns, and the psalm’s role in shaping the Psalter’s structure. Her work intersects with Christian-Jewish contextual studies , informed by her academic ties to the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Selected publications include: Torah through the Lens of Wisdom (BN 202, 2024) Speaking Responsibly about Biblical Texts (Leipzig, 2023) She has taught courses on Old Testament exegesis, Psalms, and Christian-Jewish dialogue since 2020. Awards include the 2021 University of Bonn Teaching Award and a Konrad Adenauer Foundation Fellowship .
Vicente Vide Rodriguez is a faculty member at the University of Deusto , affiliated with the College of Theology and Department of Theology . His career spans over three decades, focusing on intersections between theology, philosophy, and cultural studies. He has held significant roles in academic commissions and thesis tribunals, contributing to research and doctrinal development.
Rev Dr Vicky Balabanski is a Senior Lecturer in New Testament at Flinders University's Department of Theology and Director of Biblical Studies at the Uniting College for Leadership and Theology. With a PhD in Classics and Near Eastern Studies from the University of Melbourne (1993), she has held prestigious fellowships including the Golda Meir post-doctoral position at Hebrew University and scholarships from DAAD, Swiss Government, and Robert Maddox. Bachelor of Divinity, Melbourne College of Divinity (1986) Bachelor of Arts with Honours, University of Melbourne (1982) Her research focuses on ecological and feminist interpretations of the Bible, Stoic philosophy in New Testament contexts, and Indigenous spirituality. She co-edits the Earth Bible Project, which explores scriptural responses to ecological crises, and contributes to feminist collections while supporting Indigenous writers through initiatives like the 2019 National First and Second Peoples' writers' retreat. Notable research outputs include her 2020 monograph Colossians: An Eco-Stoic Reading , 2024 chapters on creation theology, and a 2025 introduction to a JSNT special issue on creation. These works reflect her expertise in New Testament hermeneutics, ecological ethics, and cross-disciplinary engagement with Stoic cosmology. Scientific Awards : 2017: Member of Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas (SNTS) 2012 & 2011: Visiting Scholar appointments in India and Thailand 1996: Post-doctoral fellowship at Hebrew University 1988-1989: Swiss Government and Robert Maddox scholarships 1981: DAAD German Government Scholarship As a Higher Education supervisor, she guides students in topics like Irony in the Fourth Gospel and Pauline engagement with Stoic thought . She also directs Flinders' Forum on Religion and Ecology (Australia-Pacific) and contributes to the Earth Bible Project as an editor.
Dr. Matthias Mangold is a Senior Researcher in Historical Theology at the Institute of Post-Reformation Studies (IPRS) within the Evangelical Theological Faculty (ETF) Leuven, Belgium. His work focuses on early modern theological and philosophical currents in the Dutch Republic, particularly the intersection of Reformed orthodoxy, Cartesianism, and the reception of figures like Spinoza and Cocceius. PhD in Theology and Religious Studies (2021) from ETF Leuven MA in Theology and Religious Studies (2013) from ETF Leuven Staatsunabhängige Theologische Hochschule Basel (2010) Matthias's research spans the Cartesio-Cocceian synthesis , covenant theology, and the intellectual dynamics of the Dutch Golden Age . He has contributed to translating the Synopsis Purioris Theologiae and analyzed its global theological impact post-1625. His award-winning thesis on Salomon van Til's covenant doctrine established his expertise in 17th-century Reformed debates . His publications and presentations explore topics such as Van Til's engagement with Spinoza, Braun's Cartesian epistemology, and the compatibility of heliocentrism with Reformed hermeneutics. Key awards include the Prof. dr. S. van der Linde-Award for his MA thesis and fellowships at institutions like the Meeter Center for Calvin Studies and the Institut d’histoire de la Réformation.
Prof. Dr. Pieter Boersema is a Visiting Professor of Religious Studies & Missiology at the Evangelical Theological Faculty Leuven since 2018. His academic career at ETF spans multiple roles including Professor (2004-2018), Chairman of Department (2004-2018), and Academic Dean (2003-2004). Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (PhD in Social and Cultural Anthropology, 2004) Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Drs. in Cultural Anthropology, 1996) University of Reading (MSc Agricultural Extension, 1985) His research bridges anthropology of religion with mission studies , focusing on intercultural communication and contextualization of Christianity . Key publications include Diversity in a Cultural-Religious Context (2023) and The Word in Image and Language (2020). As a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute , Boersema's work examines religious identity in multicultural societies, with specific attention to Christian migrant communities and Moluccan theological education . His editorial contributions in Under Tension (2011) and Authority in Motion (2008) reflect his interdisciplinary approach.
Christian Hild is a Privatdozent (PD) in Practical Theology/Religious Education at the University of Saarland's Faculty of Protestant Theology. He holds a dual doctorate (Dr. phil. in Classical Philology from Tübingen University and Dr. phil. in Historical Theology from Saarland University) and completed his habilitation in Practical Theology/Religious Education at Saarland University in 2022. His primary academic affiliation is with the Department of Protestant Theology at the University of Saarland, where he teaches and conducts research on religious education, translation studies, and language sensitization in religious contexts. Christian Hild's educational background includes: 1999-2003: Studies in Latin and Protestant Theology at Saarland University, obtaining First State Examination in 2003 2004-2006: Teacher training (Referendariat), obtaining Second State Examination 2013: Doctorate in Classical Philology from Eberhard Karls University Tübingen 2016: Doctorate in Historical Theology from Saarland University 2022: Habilitation in Practical Theology/Religious Education from Saarland University Dr. Hild's research focuses on the intersection of religious education, translation studies, and language sensitization. His work explores how religious concepts and terminology can be effectively translated and adapted across linguistic and cultural boundaries, particularly in educational settings. He investigates the role of translation processes—both intralingual (within the same language) and intersemiotic (across different sign systems)—in facilitating religious understanding and dialogue. His research also addresses the integration of religious and ethical education, especially in interdisciplinary contexts such as engineering education, and examines humanity as a guiding principle in religious pedagogy. Analysis of Dr. Hild's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on translation processes in religious education, with particular attention to linguistic challenges in conveying religious concepts across cultural contexts. His work spans multiple disciplines including theology, linguistics, education, and ethics, demonstrating an interdisciplinary approach to religious pedagogy. A notable trend is his increasing focus on practical applications of theoretical concepts, particularly in developing teaching methods that address multilingual and multicultural classroom environments. His research also shows growing engagement with contemporary issues such as pandemic-related religious communication and the integration of religious and ethical education in technical fields. Dr. Hild serves as a known examiner for the Theological Examination Commission of the Evangelical Church in the Rhineland since 2017. While specific grant information isn't detailed in the provided text, his participation in the "SirSyn" research project (2013-2017) indicates experience with third-party funded research. His collaborative work on multiple edited volumes suggests active engagement with academic networks and potential mentorship of junior scholars, though specific students are not named. Dr. Hild is actively involved in several academic initiatives, including the "Religion und Kommunikation in Bildung und Gesellschaft" (RKBG) book series, which he co-edits. He participates in the design and implementation of the "Industriedesign, Ergonomie und Ethik" module for engineering students, demonstrating interdisciplinary collaboration between religious studies and technical education. His work with the WiReLex (Scientific Religious Education Lexicon) shows engagement with digital academic resources in his field.
Dr. Ryan Richard Overbey is the Robert H.N. Ho Family Foundation Associate Professor in Buddhist Studies and Chair of the Religious Studies Department at Skidmore College . Holding a Ph.D. in the Study of Religion from Harvard University (2010) and an A.B. in Classics & Sanskrit from Brown University (2001), Dr. Overbey specializes in the intersection of Buddhist ritual theory and practice through critical analysis of esoteric traditions. Ph.D., Harvard University (2010) A.B., Brown University (2001) His research focuses on Buddhist Studies with particular emphasis on Chinese and Indian religions , Tantra , and digital humanities . Recent work involves the interpretation of dhāraṇī scriptures, Pure Land rituals, and Buddhist stone inscriptions across Central and East Asia. Dr. Overbey has received prestigious awards including the ACLS Ho Foundation Grant (2021–2022), Shinjō Itō Fellowship (2013–2015), and multiple Harvard University teaching accolades. His publications span editions of Buddhist scriptures and theoretical analyses of ritual practices. Books : The Vaults of Buddhas (under review), co-edited volumes with Brill and Oxford University Press Courses Taught : Introduction to Asian Studies, Buddhism and the Body, Religious Studies core curriculum
Gregory Spinner is a Teaching Professor at the Department of Religious Studies , Skidmore College. His research focuses on interdisciplinary intersections of religion, gender, and visual culture. Ph.D., The University of Chicago (2003) M.A., The University of Chicago (1988) B.A., The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (1987) Key research areas include Jewish mysticism , Christian and Muslim scriptures , and ritual practices , with particular attention to mythology , millennialism , and gender dynamics . His publications analyze topics like parental imprinting, suffering in Jewish thought, and morphological theories in religious contexts. He engages with visual culture through collaborations like the Graphic Jews: Negotiating Identity in Sequential Art podcast series at the Tang Museum, and contributions to public discourse on antisemitism.
Joan Ferrer Costa is a full Professor at the University of Girona within the Philology and Communication department. His academic work focuses on Hebrew and Aramaic Studies , Biblical Philology , and Catalan Language through religious text translation and linguistic analysis. Research : History and normative studies of Catalan language, Judeo-Romance linguistics, and interlinear biblical editions Publications : Bilingual Latin-Catalan Augustinian works (2024), Syriac lexicography (2020), and Hebrew-Catalan Exodus editions (2023) Contact : joan.ferrer@udg.edu
apl. Prof. Dr. Thilo Rudnig is an extraordinary professor and Hebrew lecturer at the Faculty of Theology, University of Göttingen. His academic journey includes a doctorate from the University of Münster (1999), habilitation (2005), and extensive research on Old Testament texts. He coordinates the ludus linguarum at the Centrum Orbis Orientalis et Occidentalis and serves as the Faculty Representative for Good Scientific Practice and Chairman of the Equal Opportunities Commission. Rudnig's research focuses on Old Testament exegesis, Hebrew linguistics, prophetic literature, and ancient Near Eastern religions. Key areas include Ezekiel studies, Davidic historiography, temple theology, and Hebrew syntax. His work integrates philology, literary criticism, and comparative analysis of Ugaritic and biblical texts. His publications emphasize textual criticism, theological motifs in biblical narratives, and modern adaptations of scriptural themes. Recent works explore holiness concepts in Isaiah, Syriac Psalms, and cinematic reinterpretations of Job. His Luther Bible revisions reflect rigorous engagement with historical and linguistic contexts. Awards: Dissertation prize, WWU Münster (1999) Rudnig actively contributes to academic societies including the Scientific Society for Theology and the Hebraists Association. He examines Old Testament theology for the Evangelical Church of Hanover and participates in Christian-Jewish dialogue.
Dr. Edeltraud Gaus is a part-time lecturer at the University of Tübingen in the Faculty of Catholic Theology , specializing in Religious Education . She is affiliated with the Tübinger School of Education (TüSE) and collaborates with institutions like the Institut national supérieur du professorat et de l'éducation in Marseille and the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven . Her current roles include teaching modules on professional development and interreligious topics. PhD in Catholic Theology (2017-2022), University of Tübingen Part-time lecturer at University of Tübingen since 2009 Visiting scholar at Australian Catholic University (2018-2019) Erasmus+ exchange at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (2019) Her research focuses on teacher professionalism , reflective practice , interfaith education , and relational teaching . She explores how educators maintain pedagogical integrity during crises , integrates embodied learning from biblical texts, and develops intercultural and interreligious curricula . Recent work addresses antisemitism in education and applied theology for modern teaching challenges. Her publications emphasize critical reflection , ethical education , and communal theological understanding . She contributes to educational resources like the Klett-Auer Verlag series and engages in collaborative projects such as the Springer VS interreligious hermeneutics volume (2024). Teaching Board Member , Tübingen School of Education Ansprechperson for sexual harassment issues Part-time lecturer for modules like 'Integrative Social Work' and 'Religious and Intercultural Competencies' Contributor to accreditation processes for theology programs
