The Psychedelics and Contemplation Lab is a collaborative, multidisciplinary space dedicated to the scientific study of non-ordinary states of consciousness, spiritual practices, and novel clinical interventions.
Co-directed by Dr. Kyle Greenway and Dr. Michael Lifshitz, the lab takes a synergistic approach to research and practice. Dr. Greenway鈥檚 work focuses on treating non-idealised psychiatric patients, investigating how extra-pharmacological factors influence both psychedelic and conventional therapies. His research develops novel treatment protocols while exploring how interventions can be tailored to individual patients based on their unique life experiences and cultural contexts. Dr. Lifshitz鈥檚 research combines phenomenology, neuroscience, and anthropology to examine how brain plasticity and social context interact to shape experience. In addition to his work on psychedelics, he collaborates with expert contemplatives to better understand how mind-body practices such as meditation and prayer can modulate our perception of the world, animate our imagination, and complicate our usual sense of being a unitary, independent self.
The lab approaches research through a relational and interpersonal lens, emphasizing the importance of social and cultural factors in shaping experiences and outcomes. We also strive for ecological validity, working on the ground with real patients and contemplatives, whether at the clinical bedside or in churches and retreat centers. Beyond our empirical studies, we value rigorous meta-study to continuously improve how research is conceptualized, conducted and reported. With these guiding principles, the Psychedelics and Contemplation Lab strives to better understand and apply the transformative potential of ritual practices and non-ordinary states.