The launch of the Edinburgh Buddhist Studies Network took place in September 2019. Founded and co-directed by Dr Naomi Appleton, the network was launched with the intent of linking researchers across the University of Edinburgh and beyond. In addition to research projects and teaching the project provides CPD opportunities to school teachers. A launch reception was held at the National Museum of Scotland, 6 September 2019.
The Edinburgh Buddhist Studies Network is currently led by Dr Naomi Appleton and aims to foster interdisciplinary scholarship across the broad field of Buddhist studies and nurture and shape the trajectory of, the future of Buddhist studies in the UK. They also aim to promote improved public understanding of Buddhism, and enhance the reputation of the University of Edinburgh as a key international hub for research, teaching, and outreach relating to Asian religions.
Edinburgh Buddhist Studies is supported by the Khyentse Foundation.
Dr Naomi Appleton
Naomi Appleton has been working at the University of Edinburgh since 2012 when she arrived as a Chancellor’s Fellow. Before that she held a British Academy Postdoctoral Fellowship at Cardiff University. She works on the areas of early Indian religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism) and Buddhist Studies more broadly.