Explore our Research

Where Islamic Tradition Meets Contemporary Scholarship

Research at AMI​

Welcome to our research hub, dedicated to advancing the rich and diverse field of Islamic Studies. Our research spans across six specialist areas, bridging classical traditions with contemporary inquiry to address both enduring questions and present-day challenges.

Islamic Legal Studies

This field of study critically examines contemporary jurisprudence and legal theory, tracing the historical development of Islamic legal frameworks and analysing their application within modern social and political contexts.

Philosophy and Theology

This area undertakes rigorous examinations of metaphysical and theological concepts, including the nature of divinity, divine governance, eschatology, prophecy, and revelation, by utilising analytical and historical methodologies.

Qur'anic Studies

Focused on the Qur'an as a multifaceted text, this area engages in comprehensive scholarly inquiry into its ethical, legal, theological, philosophical, spiritual, historical, and literary dimensions to enhance understanding of its interpretive traditions.

Hadith and History

This field of study investigates ḥadīth transmission, authentication, and contextualisation, examining how these traditions were formed and canonised while linking historical inquiry with contemporary scholarship.

Mysticism and Spirituality

This field of study explores Islamic mystical traditions and spiritual psychology, with particular attention to their Shīʿī heritage, and relevance to contemporary personal and social challenges.

Societies and Cultures

This field of study examines diverse religious traditions and societies, addressing shared questions in religion, ethics, and philosophy while considering their engagement with contemporary issues such as AI, biotechnology, and social change.

Latest Research Highlights

Stay current with our activities across all research areas, from conferences to publications!

Shi’i Seminaries in Najaf

In this episode of Thinking Islam, Dr. Asma Barlas joins us to interrogate whether God, described as supremely just in the Qur’an, could be seen as biased towards men. With verses like qiwamah and the...

Quran and Gender

Explore the Quran's insights on gender dynamics and equality in our latest video. We examine how religious teachings relate to contemporary gender issues, challenging traditional narratives. Join us...

Hawza in the West

The Hawza, vital to Shiʿi life, is evolving with Western institutions, changing how Islamic scholarship is taught. While facing challenges like language barriers, these Hawzas create opportunities for...

Research Opportunities

Al-Mahdi Institute offers a range of research opportunities designed to support scholars at every stage of their academic journey. From affiliate positions to visiting fellowships and doctoral scholarships, AMI provides pathways to engage deeply with Islamic studies in a vibrant scholarly community.

Affiliate Programme

The Affiliate Programme welcomes scholars seeking to engage with AMI’s research community and resources. Affiliates gain recognition, access to the library and facilities, and the opportunity to collaborate within a supportive academic environment.

Visiting Fellowships

The AMI Visiting Fellowship enables scholars to conduct research, collaborate with faculty, and engage with a vibrant academic community, with access to AMI’s library, campus facilities, and a supportive environment for advancing Islamic studies.

PhD Doctoral Scholarship

The AMI Doctoral Scholarship offers up to £3,000 to support research on Imāmī (Twelver) Shīʿism. Open to doctoral students worldwide, the scholarship promotes original contributions to this vital yet underrepresented field in Islamic studies.

Collaborate With Us

We welcome collaboration in advancing Islamic studies. Whether through submitting papers, participating in events, accessing our resources, or proposing joint projects, join us in fostering thoughtful scholarship.