Byzantine History Scholar: An Academic Journey
The study of the Byzantine Empire—the eastern continuation of the Roman Empire—requires a deep dive into a complex tapestry of political, economic, and cultural evolution. For a dedicated historian, this pursuit often involves a global academic journey, bridging the gap between ancient texts and modern scholarly analysis.
Key Facts
- Current Affiliation: Professor at Saint Louis University since 1997.
- Specialization: Political, economic, military, social, and cultural history of the Byzantine Empire.
- Previous Institutions: Florida International University and Hillsdale College.
- Professional Memberships: American Historical Association, Society for Classical Studies, Medieval Academy of America, and the American Association of University Professors.
Early Academic Foundations
The path to becoming a leading voice in Byzantine studies began with a series of prestigious visiting lectureships and research fellowships. Between 1977 and 1983, these roles provided a diverse international perspective on historical research.
- University of California, Los Angeles (1977–78)
- LMU Munich (1978–80)
- Stanford University (1980–82)
- Free University of Berlin (1982–83)
Professional Teaching Career
Transitioning from research fellowships to formal instruction, the scholar began as an assistant professor of history at Hillsdale College in Michigan from 1983 to 1988. This period established the foundation for a career dedicated to higher education.
In 1988, the trajectory moved to Miami, where he joined Florida International University. During his tenure there, he earned a promotion to professor of history. His time in Florida was punctuated by high-level research opportunities, including a visiting fellowship at All Souls College, Oxford in 1989 and a fellowship at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars from 1996 to 1997.
Since 1997, he has been a member of the faculty at Saint Louis University, where he continues to teach and contribute to the field of history.
Research Interests and Professional Affiliations
The core of his scholarly work focuses on the multifaceted nature of the Byzantine Empire. His research is not limited to the events of the era but extends to the Byzantine historians themselves—the primary chroniclers who recorded the empire's trajectory.
To maintain rigorous academic standards and collaborate with peers, he holds memberships in several prominent organizations:
- American Historical Association
- Society for Classical Studies
- Medieval Academy of America
- American Association of University Professors
| Period | Institution/Organization | Role/Status |
|---|---|---|
| 1977–1983 | UCLA, LMU Munich, Stanford, Free University of Berlin | Visiting Lecturer/Research Fellow |
| 1983–1988 | Hillsdale College | Assistant Professor of History |
| 1988–1997 | Florida International University | Professor of History |
| 1997–Present | Saint Louis University | Professor |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of his historical research?
His research focuses on the political, economic, military, social, and cultural history of the Byzantine Empire, as well as the study of the historians who documented that era.
Where does he currently teach?
He has been teaching at Saint Louis University since 1997.
Which prestigious fellowships has he held?
He was a visiting fellow at All Souls College, Oxford in 1989 and a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars from 1996 to 1997.
What professional historical societies is he a member of?
He is a member of the American Historical Association, the Society for Classical Studies, the Medieval Academy of America, and the American Association of University Professors.