Research Initiatives
Advancing Knowledge, Preserving Wisdom, and Inspiring Innovation
At UWest, research is more than an academic pursuit—it is a means of exploration, preservation, and transformation. Rooted in Buddhist wisdom and interdisciplinary scholarship, our research initiatives bridge tradition and modernity, ensuring that new knowledge is created, historical texts are preserved, and students are empowered to engage in meaningful inquiry.
Through our research institutes, faculty projects, and student opportunities, UWest is committed to advancing scholarship, fostering critical thought, and enriching global conversations on Buddhism, humanities, and social impact.
UWest Research Initiatives
Institute for the Study of Humanistic Buddhism
The Institute for the Study of Humanistic Buddhism (ISHB) promotes interdisciplinary research into Humanistic Buddhism, exploring its relevance in today’s world. Inspired by Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s vision, the institute facilitates academic studies, hosts lectures and symposia, and contributes to international Buddhist scholarship.
Director: Dr. Shou-Jen Kuo
Contact: shoujenk@uwest.edu
Digital Sanskrit Buddhist Canon Project
This initiative is dedicated to gathering, digitizing, and distributing original Sanskrit Buddhist scriptures, ensuring their accessibility to scholars and practitioners worldwide. With over 50,000 pages digitized and more in progress, this project plays a vital role in preserving historical texts and making them available for modern research.
Director: Dr. Miroj Shakya
Contact: mirojs@uwest.edu