Alexander B. Murphy

Alexander B. Murphy is a Professor of Geography and holds the James F. and Shirley K. Rippey Chair in Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Oregon. He specializes in political, cultural, and environmental geography with regional expertise in Europe and the Middle East.

Education

• B.A. in Archaeology, Yale University
• J.D., Columbia University School of Law
• Ph.D. in Geography, University of Chicago

His research focuses on identity-territory dynamics, geopolitical processes, and the intersection of environmental and social systems. He has contributed to geographic education initiatives, including integrating geography into the College Board’s Advanced Placement Program.

Honors & Awards

• 2011 Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center Residency Fellow
• 2009 Queen Mary Distinguished Visiting Fellow
• 2008 Gilbert Grosvenor Honors for Geographic Education
• 2001 NCGE Distinguished Teaching Award
• National Science Foundation Presidential Young Investigator (1991-1997)
• Fulbright-Hays Research Grant (1985)
• Academia Europaea member (2011)

Murphy has co-edited Progress in Human Geography (11 years) and serves as editor for Eurasian Geography and Economics. He previously chaired the National Research Council Committee on Strategic Directions for the Geographical Sciences.