The Buddha the Scientist Symposium & Retreat
These symposiums bring together mindfulness practitioners and scientists to explore the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern scientific inquiry. Rooted in the teachings of the Buddha — who approached the mind and body with a spirit of experimentation and inquiry — they offer a transformative space to cultivate mindfulness, insight, and resilience.
About the Symposium
The Buddha the Scientist Symposium (TBTS) invites scientists from around the world to explore the intersection of Buddhism, psychology, and neuroscience through the embodied practice of mindfulness. The symposium combines mindfulness practice with groundbreaking scientific inquiry and discussion.
We often partner with universities to host the symposiums, bringing together professors, scholars, scientists, and researchers from around the world to offer their insights.
The Buddha as a Scientist
The Buddha, as a true pioneer, ignited a revolution in understanding the mind and body. His teachings offer concrete methods to develop mindfulness, concentration, and insight—an invaluable compass for seekers throughout the ages. Moreover, he embodied a scientific mindset, continually adapting his teachings based on real-life evidence gleaned from his own practice and that of his students.
July 2025
There are no events to display.
Hear what participants said:
The lecture on somatic exercises was a new learning that made a strong-felt impression. I was also moved by the brave sharing by Sangha members who asked difficult questions.
–TBTS Participant, 2022
There were many [memorable moments], but hearing the scientists share their research and how changing our diets could save the planet was very inspiring.
–TBTS Participant, 2022
My favorite element of Dr. Niemiec’s workshop was the part where we were paired with another person and shared our strengths. It’s unusual to talk about my strengths and especially without also talking about my weaknesses.
–TBTS Participant, 2022
Explore Online Courses
From time to time we offer multi-week courses related to mindfulness, the teachings and life of Thich Nhat Hanh, and a variety of similar subjects. Please see our schedule of upcoming courses.
Plum Village App
Take the Deer Park Monastery and Plum Village community with you wherever you go. The Plum Village app is designed to cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and joy through guided meditations, deep relaxations, practice poems, bells of mindfulness, and other practices — all through a mobile device.
