Mission
The mission of the Michigan Paranormal Research Institute is to advance the systematic and objective study of unexplained phenomena within the region and beyond. Through rigorous investigation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and public engagement, the Institute seeks to expand knowledge, preserve cultural narratives, and promote a deeper understanding of the mysteries that shape human experience.
Team
Dr. Eleanor Whitcomb
Dr. Eleanor Whitcomb was appointed Director of the Michigan Paranormal Research Institute in 2024, bringing with her over two decades of experience in psychology and the study of unexplained human experiences. Her work emphasizes the psychological dimensions of paranormal encounters, including the cognitive, perceptual, and emotional processes that shape reports of hauntings and related phenomena. As Director, she has prioritized rigorous methodologies, peer-reviewed scholarship, and interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthening the Institute’s reputation as a credible academic body. Under her leadership, the Institute has expanded its research focus on how human psychology intersects with claims of the supernatural, particularly within the context of hauntings across the Great Lakes region.
In addition to her research, Dr. Whitcomb has been a driving force in adapting the Institute to new challenges. She has spearheaded efforts to increase transparency and visibility, including the unprecedented release of peer-reviewed investigation reports to the public. Her leadership reflects a balance of academic rigor and public engagement, ensuring the Institute’s continued relevance in both scholarly and community contexts. Dr. Whitcomb’s career reflects not only her commitment to advancing the scientific study of psychology within the paranormal domain but also her dedication to safeguarding the Institute’s legacy as one of the nation’s oldest centers for research into the unknown.
Matthew Rodgers
Matthew Rodgers is a Senior Project Manager at the Michigan Paranormal Research Institute, where he has led key initiatives since joining the team in 2023. With extensive experience in project coordination and organizational leadership, he oversees field investigations, facilitates collaboration among interdisciplinary research teams, and ensures that projects are executed efficiently and effectively. Mr. Rodgers is recognized for balancing logistical precision with the adaptability required in the Institute’s unique research environment, contributing to both its operational success and long-term strategic goals.
Dr. Amber Turner
Dr. Amber Turner is a Principal Investigator at the Michigan Paranormal Research Institute, specializing in cryptozoology with an emphasis on the ecological and cultural contexts of reported cryptid sightings. Her research integrates fieldwork in Michigan’s diverse natural habitats with the analysis of folklore and eyewitness accounts, bridging scientific methodology with community knowledge. Dr. Turner’s work has been central to the Institute’s efforts to critically evaluate claims of unidentified species while fostering collaboration among researchers, local communities, and conservation professionals.
Dr. Dwayne Bolden
Dwayne Bolden is a Principal Investigator at the Michigan Paranormal Research Institute, specializing in psychology with a focus on the cognitive and behavioral dimensions of paranormal experiences. His research examines how perception, memory, and cultural context influence reports of hauntings and other unexplained phenomena. With expertise in both experimental design and field-based investigation, Mr. Bolden applies a rigorous psychological framework to the Institute’s work, ensuring careful evaluation of evidence and helping to differentiate natural explanations from experiences that challenge conventional understanding.
Dr. Sooraj Punja
Dr. Sooraj Punja is a Principal Investigator at the Michigan Paranormal Research Institute, where he specializes in parapsychology. His work focuses on the study of extrasensory perception, psychokinesis, and reported spirit manifestations, combining experimental methodologies with field-based investigations. Dr. Punja is recognized for his balanced approach, applying scientific rigor while maintaining openness to new possibilities. His contributions have been integral to advancing the Institute’s understanding of parapsychological phenomena and furthering its mission to explore the boundaries of human perception.