I serve as a lecturer in the Religion Programme at the University of Otago, where I teach courses in Science of Religion.

My research explores how religious beliefs and practices shape human cognition, behaviour, and social dynamics. I employ a mix of quantitative, qualitative, experimental (behavioural and neuroscientific), and survey research methods.

As the Principal Investigator of the Muslim Diversity Study, I lead research on the influence of religion on social attitudes, values, flourishing, and wellbeing within Muslim communities in New Zealand. Additionally, I compare these factors across religious and non-religious groups to explore broader patterns in belief and behaviour. My work in this area includes a collaborative role in the New Zealand Attitudes and Values Study, a 20-year longitudinal quantitative panel study of adult New Zealanders.

I hold a PhD in cognitive psychology and neuroscience, with my doctoral research focusing on memory suppression and utilising brainwave (EEG/ERP) data to investigate the possession of concealed criminal knowledge. My broader research interests include contemplative neuroscience, examining the neural correlates of rituals, meditation, and other contemplative practices.

I am passionate about advancing open science, addressing questionable research practices, and promoting ethical publishing standards in science. To this end, I actively use and advocate for open science tools like GitHub and OSF. I code primarily in R using Positron and Quarto, with further experience in Matlab and Python. Additionally, I am eager to explore the applications of generative AI, such as ChatGPT and Copilot, in academic research and teaching.

• Human flourishing
• Psychology of religion
• Islamophobia
• Rituals and contemplation
• Cognitive psychology
• Forensic psychology

1. As PI in the Muslim Diversity Study.

2. As PI in Controlling unwanted memories: A multisite registered replication of the Think/No-Think effect

3. As PI in Resting EEG microstates during contemplative practices

Since 2021, I have developed a track record of effective leading and supervising research at different levels (PhD, Masters, and Honours).

1. Psychology of Religion

2. Religion and Human Behaviour

3. Introduction to the Scientific Study of Religion

For more information, please check my website.