Hugh Shapiro

Hugh Shapiro is an Associate Professor of East Asian history at the University of Nevada, Reno. His research focuses on the history of disease in comparative contexts, analyzing bodily experiences to understand historical transformations. His fieldwork and archival work span China, Japan, and Taiwan.

• Specializes in cultural practices, environmental influences, and ideas shaping illness experiences
• Additional research interests: Sino-Russian-Central Asian relations, decolonization, and authoritarianism
• Visiting appointments: Princeton University, universities in East Asia, and the Institute for Advanced Study

He has lectured across 20 Eurasian countries as a Smithsonian Journeys Expert and contributed to publications by Harvard University Press, Brill, and Rowman & Littlefield.

Scientific Awards

• Li-Qing Prize for the History of Chinese Science
• University’s highest teaching award

Shapiro earned his B.A. from Stanford University and Ph.D. from Harvard University (1995). His courses include Modern Chinese History, History of East Asia, and specialized topics in Chinese culture and medicine.