Senior lecturer in the Department of Middle Eastern Studies with a specialization in religion and state relations in Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon. Also deals with modern Islam, particularly Shi'ism. Has published extensively on these issues. Also gives lectures to the general public. Frequently appears in the media providing commentary on events in the region. Holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge and a post-doctorate from the Truman Institute at the Hebrew University and the Alliance Center for Iranian Studies at Tel Aviv University.