News

Durham double as theologian and scientist is awarded second PhD

(6 January 2005)

Who says science and Christian faith cannot be held together with integrity? University of Durham theologian and scientist David Wilkinson was awarded a PhD in theoretical astrophysics for his work on galaxy evolution and cosmology and has been a leading voice in the area of the dialogue between science and the Christian faith.

He has now been awarded a second PhD this time in the area of systematic theology for his work on what the Christian faith says about the end of the Universe. Both degrees have been awarded by the University of Durham which makes him a rare creature – not only someone with two PhDs but receiving one in science and one in theology from the same prestigious university.

David grew up in Annfield Plain, Co. Durham, and attended Greencroft Comprehensive School. After his scientific career, David was ordained as a minister in the Methodist Church and served a church in Liverpool.

He now holds the position of Wesley Research Lecturer in Theology and Science in the Department of Theology and Religion at the University of Durham. He is widely known for his broader work in the area of Christian apologetics, commending and defending the Christian faith in the areas of science and pop culture.

He lectures around the world, is a regular contributor to television and radio and has written several popular books including God, Time and Stephen Hawking (Monarch), The Power of the Force: The Spirituality of the Star Wars Films (Lion) and Creation (IVP).

He comments: “Within Western culture the assumption is often made that science has somehow demolished Christian faith. But this is not the case. Whether in contemporary cosmology or within science fiction, I see a tremendous openness to Christian faith. Certainly in my own experience, my Christian faith has encouraged me to both enjoy and take seriously science, and my science has always been fruitful rather than destructive for my Christian faith”.

For further information contact: David Wilkinson, Wesley Research Lecturer in Theology and Science, Department of Theology and Religion, University of Durham, Abbey House, Palace Green, Durham, DH1 3RS

Tel: +44 191 334 3954 Email: daw@xiancomm.org.uk