New Lectureship to lead MSc Program in Science and Religion at the University of Edinburgh

This grant provided the start-up costs of new tenured lectureship in science and religion which is held by Dr. Mark Harris. Having worked as a research physicist in Oxford for many years when he became known as one of the co-discoverers of 'spin ice,' Dr. Harris then trained in theology and Biblical studies. He now convenes a new MSc degree in science and religion. This is a one-year graduate program which introduces students from a variety of academic backgrounds to key areas and writings on the science and religion interface. The program is already attracting significant numbers of international students to Edinburgh from a wide variety of disciplinary backgrounds and career paths. Courses are currently taught by Dr. Harris, other members of the School of Divinity, including project leader David Fergusson, and colleagues from physics, philosophy, and the history of science. Related events include a series of public lectures from distinguished speakers in the field (e.g. Wentzel van Huyssteen, Wim Drees, Antje Jackelin, and Tom McLeish) and a forthcoming conference on science and religion in literature.