ABOUT ISRAE
About ISRAE
Scientific Inquiry. Human Experience. Open Minds.
The Institute for the Study of Religious and Anomalous Experience (ISRAE) is a nonprofit research institute dedicated to the systematic study of unusual experiences, beliefs, and related phenomena.
Our work brings together psychology, parapsychology, consciousness studies, and other disciplines to examine extraordinary human experiences through rigorous, interdisciplinary research.
OUR MISSION
Advancing Understanding Through Open Inquiry
ISRAE investigates exceptional and anomalous human experiences with scientific rigor, intellectual openness, and respect for the people who report them.
Our research examines the psychological, social, cultural, environmental, and potentially anomalous processes associated with these experiences. Rather than reducing complex phenomena to a single explanation, we seek to understand how different factors interact to shape what people experience and how those experiences are interpreted.
We believe careful research can expand knowledge, reduce unnecessary stigma, and encourage more informed responses to extraordinary experiences.
Rigorous Research
We use disciplined methods and open inquiry to examine unusual experiences with clarity, care, and empirical seriousness.
Interdisciplinary Inquiry
Our work brings together psychology, parapsychology, consciousness studies, and related fields to address complex human experiences.
Global Collaboration
We work with scholars, clinicians, and research partners across disciplines and communities to advance shared understanding.
Public Good
By studying exceptional experiences responsibly, we aim to expand knowledge, reduce stigma, and encourage compassionate practice.
OUR RESEARCH NETWORK
Collaboration at the Core
ISRAE is a small research institute supported by a broader network of academic and professional collaborators.
We work with researchers, clinicians, scholars, students, and organizations whose expertise contributes to the study of anomalous, religious, and exceptional human experiences.
This collaborative structure allows us to bring multiple perspectives to difficult research questions while remaining flexible enough to pursue emerging ideas, pilot studies, and interdisciplinary projects.
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Guiding Our Work
Brian Laythe, Ph.D.
Cindy Little, Ph.D.
James Houran, Ph.D.
Damien Houran
Bridget Cotton
EXPLORE. CONNECT. SUPPORT