Ryan is a scholar of Confucian-Christian dialogue and comparative theology, focusing on encounters between Catholicism and Neo-Confucianism in China.

His doctoral work explored the efforts of Chinese Jesuit theologian Aloysius Chang Chun-shen (1929-2015) to inculturate Christian spirituality by way of the Neo-Confucian practice of “quiet-sitting,” arguing that Chang raises important insights for reflection on the relation between contemplation and action in both traditions.

Before pursuing theological studies, Ryan spent several years in China teaching English, studying Chinese philosophy, and working for the Shanghai-based social media company musical.ly.

Uniting all these pursuits, and continuing in his teaching, is a passion for building bridges of friendship and understanding across cultural and religious boundaries.