Seema Golestaneh is an Associate Professor of Near Eastern Studies. Her work explores contemporary Islamic thought in the world today, with a special focus on Persian speaking communities.  Trained as an anthropologist, Prof. Golestaneh's research draws on interviews with everyday people to better understand the role that religion plays in their lives.  Both in her writing and her teaching, she strives to highlight minoritized voices and creative expressions of critical thought.  She loves to learn about student research   

Outside of campus life, Prof. Golestaneh likes trying out new recipes, attempting various forms of cardio and HIIT workouts, reading poetry, and afternoon siestas. Prof. Golestaneh grew up mostly on Long Island, but spent her childhood summers in Iran, where she learned the art of the mid-day snooze.