Summary of Research
His doctoral research examines systematic theology in dialogue with the emerging area of cognitive science known as ‘embodied cognition’ or ‘4E cognition’. Embodied cognition considers how factors beyond the brain—such as emotional body states, perceptual interactions or engagement with material culture—participate in our cognitive processes. His work probes how findings in this area relate to liturgical theology, theological concepts, and the principle of divine accommodation.
His current research focuses on the intersection of psychology and ecotheology. Together with some scientific collaborators, he is seeking to psychologically test claims that conceptualising God within nature leads alters environmental attitudes and behaviours.
Before joining Harris Manchester College, he completed an MPhil and DPhil in Theology at the University of Oxford. He subsequently held a post-doctoral fellowship in Science-Engaged Theology at the University of Cambridge, and was then lecturer in theology at Ripon College Cuddesdon. He has been a fellow of the New Visions in Theological Anthropology project hosted by the University of St Andrews, and is currently a fellow of psychology cross-training programmes based at the University of Birmingham and Oxford Brookes University.
