I study two interrelated processes: the changes to Buddhism in the Himalayas (Tibet, Nepal, India, Bhutan) and the development of Nepal. My research has touched upon material culture, gender, migration, politics, and heritage preservation. I also serve as the chairperson for the Leadership and Reincarnation of the Dalai Lamas Research Network (LEAD) funded by the Independent Research Fund Denmark. LEAD discusses the impact of the Dalai Lama's plans for his upcoming succession.
I teach BA courses on the anthropology of the Himalayas, MA courses in the theory of anthropology and thesis writing, and PhD courses on planning fieldwork, analyzing data, and dissertation writing.
