Research Bio

Doctrinal history of Indian Buddhism, with a focus on Abhidharma and Yogacara. 

History of Nepalese Buddhism, covering its rituals traditions (life-cycle rituals, including old age rituals, consecration rituals, including the rites of constructing and renovating stupas), its literature (authored in the Sanskrit and Newar languages) including its narrative traditions as recorded notably in the Svayambhupurana, its art historical heritage (including scroll and mural paintings), the history of its cults snd monuments  (especially  the Svayambhu caitya of Kathmandu, studied through historical chronicles and inscriptions), and its persistence into the present (studied through fieldwork carried out in Nepal).

Alexader von Rospatt is Catherine and William L. Magistretti Distinguished Professor in South and Southeast Asian Studies, Director of the Group in Buddhist Studies, and Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Presidential Chair in Buddhist Studies.

Research Expertise and Interest

Buddhist traditions of South Asia, ritual studies, Nepalese studies, doctrinal history, Newar Buddhism, art