This event is sponsored and hosted by BC Children’s Hospital, Plum Village, and The RHNHFF BCS Program.
This symposium concludes a 4-day retreat hosted by Plum Village and Deer Park, and invites scientists from around the world to explore the intersection of Buddhism, psychology, and neuroscience through the embodied practice of mindfulness.
The Buddha the Scientist Hybrid Symposium will be offered online and in-person at the Asian Centre at UBC. The symposium combines mindfulness practice with groundbreaking scientific inquiry and discussion, inspired by “The Buddha, the Scientist” series held at Deer Park Monastery (2022, 2023) and Dartmouth College (2025), this retreat and symposium brings Thích Nhất Hạnh’s vision of integrating mindfulness into scientific communities to life.
Virtual and in-person attendees will experience the unique format of practicing mindfulness alongside scholars, who then present their research in a reflective, inspirational symposium. Following the presentations, a panel Q&A will offer opportunities for meaningful dialogue.
A vegetarian lunch will be provided for those who attend in-person.