Division of Perceptual Studies
Our Mission - Scientific Study of Extraordinary Experiences
Founded in 1967 by Dr. Ian Stevenson, the Division of Perceptual Studies (DOPS) at the University of Virginia is a research group devoted to the rigorous evaluation of empirical evidence for extraordinary human experiences and capacities.
The primary focus of DOPS is investigating the mind's relationship to the body and the possibility of consciousness surviving physical death. In general, this process involves studying phenomena that challenge mainstream scientific paradigms regarding the nature of human consciousness.
DOPS also studies the impact of these experiences on people, explores the implications for scientific theory, and disseminates this information to both the public and scientific communities. It is our hope that other scientists join in addressing the serious study of the nature of consciousness and its interaction with the physical world.
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Get to Know Our Researchers at the Division of Perceptual Studies
AS SEEN IN VIDEO: Drs. Jim Tucker (retired), Bruce Greyson, Kim Penberthy, Edward Kelly, Marieta Pehlivanova NOT SEEN IN VIDEO: Drs. Ross Dunseath, David Acunzo, Philip Cozzolino, Marina Weiler
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Participate in Our ResearchEngage MoreJoin our team as a research participant, an academic researcher, or as a volunteer. Discover the opportunities to get involved with DOPS and help us study the nature of consciousness.
News and MediaView MoreMillions of views on this UVA Medical Center Hour, highlighting decades of DOPS research. "View More" to check out other presentations, radio programs, podcasts, and articles that include our researchers.
Books by DOPS FacultyRead MoreExplore the many books authored and edited by our faculty, including best-sellers and award-winners covering topics such as past-life memories, near-death experiences, and the study of body and mind.
Is There Life After Death?
Join millions of viewers and watch this popular panel discussion with DOPS faculty and John Cleese. Learn about decades of research that suggest the possibility of consciousness surviving death. Topics: past lives, NDEs, deathbed visions, terminal lucidity, altered states, veridical OBEs, and more!
Watch the VideoDOPS Researchers on Streaming
"Surviving Death"
Series with topics suggesting survival of consciousness after death.
Episode 1 - NDEs with Dr. Greyson, Episode 6 - PLMs with Dr. Tucker
DOPS Research in the News
The Children Who Remember Their Past Lives:
What happens when your toddler is haunted by memories that aren’t hers?
"In the beginning, it seemed like Nina was just an imaginary friend..."
Contact DOPS
The staff of the Division welcomes information about unusual or anomalous experiences that appear to challenge normal explanations.
BIG THINK presents Dr. Bruce Greyson
Are near-death experiences real? Here’s what science has to say. Psychiatrist studied 1,000 near-death experiences. Here’s what he discovered.
Children Who Report Past Lives
Dr. Tucker was invited to give a talk on this phenomenon at the 2019 Vail Symposium. He presents research from the DOPS database, containing thousands of files from around the world. Extraordinary cases are discussed, as well as details of recent American cases.
