PhD in Cellular Genetics, France. Buddhist monk studying Buddhism in the Himalayas for the last 50 years. Founder, Karuna-Shechen, a humanitarian organization that completed 200 projects in the Himalayan region for health, education and social services; active in scientific research on the effects of meditation on the brain. Member, Mind and Life Institute. Author of several books, including: The Monk and the Philosopher; The Quantum and the Lotus, Happiness; Altruism: How compassion can change yourself and the world, A Plea for the Animals and Beyond the Self. Published several albums as photographer, including: Buddhist Himalayas; Tibet; Motionless Journey; and "Un demi-siècle dans l'Himalaya". Recipient of French National Order of Merit, and the Legion d'Honneur for his humanitarian works.