Axel Körner

Axel Körner is a Professor of Modern Cultural and Intellectual History at the University of Leipzig and Honorary Professor at University College London (UCL). He holds affiliations with the Historisches Seminar and the Leipziger Research Centre Global Dynamics. His career includes roles as Professor of Modern History at UCL (2005–2021), and prior positions as a Reader (Associate Professor) and Lecturer there. He has held visiting professorships at the Institute for Advanced Study (Princeton), École Normale Supérieure Paris, and NYU’s Remarque Center.

Research focuses on Italian history, transatlantic relations, Habsburg Monarchy, and 19th-century music/opera. Notable works include America in Italy (Princeton, 2017), awarded the Marraro Prize. Current ERC-funded project explores Opera and the Politics of Empire in Habsburg Europe (1815–1914).

Leadership roles include founding director of UCL’s Centre for Transnational History and membership in the Academia Europaea. Active in academic governance, serving on editorial boards and international research networks.