Michael Lewis

Dr. Michael Lewis is a Professor of Environmental Studies and History at Salisbury University, serving as Chair of the Department of Environmental Studies since 2012. He joined the faculty in 2000 and co-founded the Environmental Studies Program in 2004. Lewis holds a PhD in American Studies from the University of Iowa (2000), an MA from the University of Alabama (1993), and a BA in Biology from Rhodes College (1992). His research focuses on environmental history, global ecological policies, and the intersection of science and colonialism. Notable works include Inventing Global Ecology (2004) and American Wilderness (2007).

• Awards: Wilson H. Elkins Professorship (2012–14), Distinguished Faculty Award (2005), and multiple teaching accolades.
• Teaching: Courses include Environmental Humanities, Global Environmental History, and field studies in India. He pioneered student-led research projects like Constructing the Woods (2006).
• Service: Active in local environmental initiatives, including the Wicomico Creekwatchers and Pemberton Park Advisory Board. Served as Director of the SU Environmental Studies Program (2004–2012).

His research emphasizes transnational environmental policy, conservation biology, and the social dimensions of ecological science. Recent work explores the historical dynamics of biodiversity conservation in India and U.S. Cold War-era scientific exchanges.