Julian M. Murchison

A photo of Julian Murchison

Department Head and Associate Professor

Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology

 

[email protected]

Education

Interests and Expertise

  • Cultural anthropology
  • Anthropology of religion
  • Medical anthropology
  • Ethnographic methods
  • Tanzania/East Africa

Professional

Julian's ethnographic research focuses on questions arising at the intersection of religion and health, primarily in southern Tanzania, where he has conducted research for over fifteen years. This work seeks insight into experiences of bodies and selfhood – including spirits, magic/witchcraft, physical and mental ailments and various dimensions of identity – in these spaces. In the past few years, he has also engaged in research looking at ethnography that spans the virtual and physical registers. He published Ethnography Essentials in 2010 and is currently working on another book that explores key topics in medical anthropology through the lens of long-term ethnographic research in Tanzania. Julian worked with a team of Tanzanian colleagues to help stage the inaugural version of Majimaji Selebuka in 2015 and plans to remain involved in the collaborative work for this annual cultural festival. Outside of the office, Julian enjoys cooking and outdoor activities, especially running. Most of all, he enjoys the fun and laughter of adventures with his family (Sandra, Collin and Dean).