A rare blend of traditional monastic training and modern academic insight, Geshe Tenzin Namdak is one of the few Westerners to hold a full Geshe degree and teach internationally on Buddhism and consciousness. He is the resident teacher here at Jamyang Buddhist Centre London.
Geshe Tenzin Namdak is a highly respected Buddhist scholar and teacher, and the resident Geshe at Jamyang Buddhist Centre London, where he leads structured study programmes including FPMT’s Discovering Buddhism, , Exploring Buddhism, and Basic Program, advanced teachings on Buddhist philosophy, Lojong (mind training), and the Lamrim (stages of the path to enlightenment).
He also offers special courses on traditional texts written by great Indian and Tibetan masters such as Nagarjuna, Atisha Shantideva, and Je Tsongkhapa, as well as special teaching evenings and weekend intensives. All of his teachings are offered in English. In addition, Geshe Namdak leads regular Puja and prayer practice services on behalf of the Jamyang community.
One of the first Westerners to complete the full traditional Geshe degree, Geshe Namdak trained for over 20 years at Sera Jey Monastic University in India, receiving a rigorous monastic education in classical Buddhist philosophy and psychology. He completed the one-year Vajrayana study programme at Gyume Tantric College, deepening his expertise in the Buddhist Tantras.
Born in the Netherlands, Geshe Namdak was a committed student of Lama Zopa Rinpoche and received his monastic ordination from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His teaching style blends the depth and precision of the Tibetan monastic tradition with a warm, accessible approach that resonates with modern audiences.
In addition to his role at Jamyang London, Geshe Namdak is an Associate Tutor at Oxford University, contributing to the interdisciplinary programme on Buddhist Mind Science. His Oxford teachings explore topics such as emotional regulation, consciousness, and the nature of reality—bridging ancient contemplative insights with modern scientific inquiry.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Geshe Namdak
Geshe Namdak, who was an environmental researcher, having graduated in hydrology, is a regular speaker at Science & Wisdom LIVE where he has appeared in dialogue with renowned scientists including Prof. Anil Seth, Carlo Rovelli, and Thomas Metzinger. These conversations explore cutting-edge themes such as the illusion of the self, secular ethics, reality, and the intersection of cognitive science and Buddhist philosophy.
At Jamyang, he plays an active role in the spiritual and pastoral life of the community, offering guidance, support, and ceremonial leadership.
Through his decades of study, his teaching in global forums, and his community and education work in London, Geshe Namdak offers a rich and authentic voice in Buddhist mind science, philosophy and practice , dedicated to sharing the transformative power of the Dharma.
Head to our What’s On page to explore Geshe Namdak’s current schedule of teachings, clases and courses.
