From Molecular Biophysics to Theology: Alister McGrath on Science and Faith

Field: Science and religion, with academic training in chemistry and molecular biophysics.

His story

Alister McGrath studied chemistry at Oxford and earned a doctorate in molecular biophysics. During the same period, he also studied theology. He later became a theologian and Oxford professor specializing in science and religion. McGrath has described himself as a former atheist.

His biography offers an interesting account of how one person’s views developed. His scientific credentials are relevant background, but they do not settle whether his theological arguments are convincing.

Explore his work

• Read McGrath’s biography for his account of his education and career.
• Read his Oxford profile for his academic background and research interests.
• Watch his Oxford lecture on science, God, and faith for a sample of how he discusses these questions.

Read and reflect

What questions can scientific methods answer? Where do philosophical assumptions enter?

As you read, notice what changed in McGrath’s thinking and how he describes the relationship between scientific work and religious belief. His story can prompt discussion, while each of his claims still deserves to be considered on its own merits.

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