ABOUT
Research Focus & Education
The majority of my research focuses on the Dead Sea Scrolls, shedding light on the diverse and evolving religious landscape of the Second Temple period (516 BCE – 70 CE). From this departure point, I examine the long arc of reception history, tracing how ancient texts have been interpreted and reimagined throughout the centuries in diverse traditions, cultures, and mediums.
I explore the dynamic interplay of religion, culture, and identity in ancient Judaism and Christianity. I investigate how religious ideas and traditions evolved as communities engaged with scriptural texts across generations.
I hold a PhD in Religious Studies from McMaster University, a MA in Biblical Studies from Trinity Western University, and a BA in Theology from Rocky Mountain College. Committed to lifelong learning, I have also completed courses in strategic planning from Oxford University, artificial intelligence from RMIT Australia, higher education leadership from the University of Manitoba, and Indigenous history and reconciliation from First Nations University.
Expertise & Impact
My research has been recognized with prestigious international awards, including the Manfred Laughtenshlaeger Award for Theological Promise, David Noel Freedman Award for Excellence and Creativity in the Hebrew Bible, and the Norman E. Wagner Prize for Innovative Use of Technology in Research.
I have published six books, dozens of articles, and frequently contribute to national and international conferences, seminars, and lectures.
International engagements include contributions and collaborations in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Hungary, Finland, and Israel. I extend the reach of my research through innovative platforms, such as my YouTube channel, “Inscribed,” which has garnered over 4,200 subscribers and 250,000 views.
I have had the privilege of researching, teaching, and leading at remarkable universities. Currently, I serve as Associate Vice President Research and Full Professor of Humanities at Athabasca University. Previously, I held the Canada Research Chair in Religious Identities of Ancient Judaism and directed the Dead Sea Scrolls Institute at Trinity Western University. I am a former fellow of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the Albright Institute for Archaeological Research, and I have held continuous research funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).
Leadership & Innovation
I’ve effectively led digital transformations including Canada’s only implementation of Elsevier Pure as well as IDEA Lab, a cloud research and student training hub that garnered awards from ASTech Alberta, the Canadian Association of University Business Officers, and the Canadian Association of Research Administrators.
As a research leader, I bring innovation and ambition to all I do.
As a leader and innovator, I drive excellence and impact while crafting teams and cultures for strategic success. I led the development of Athabasca University’s Canada Research Chairs EDI Action Plan and sponsored the university’s Research Data Management Strategy. Currently, I serve as Chair of the Association of Canadian Comprehensive and Research Universities (ACCRU) and am a former member of the SSHRC Leaders Network.
Learn More & Connect
To explore my academic portfolio and leadership profile further, please review my curriculum vitae or profile on AU Pure.