Eric Ash

Eric Ash is a Professor of History at Wayne State University, affiliated with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. He has been teaching there since 2002 and specializes in British and Irish history, early modern Europe (16th–17th centuries), the history of science and technology, and environmental history. His research explores expert cultures, state formation, and environmental management in early modern England and Europe.

Education: A.B. from Harvard University (1994), M.A. and Ph.D. from Princeton University (1996, 2000).

Research focuses on expertise in early modern governance, including his books The Draining of the Fens (2017) and Power, Knowledge, and Expertise in Elizabethan England (2004). Current projects examine river management and political controversies in early modern England and Ireland.

Publications span themes like state-building, environmental history, and the role of experts in technical projects. His recent work critiques anachronistic interpretations of early modern expertise.

• Awards: Dibner Fellowship (2013–14), NSF Grant (2002–04), President’s Excellence in Teaching Award (2008–09).
• Grants: Career Development Chair (2007–08), Board of Governors Recognition (2018).

Teaches courses on early modern British history, the Scientific Revolution, and Ireland’s historical trajectory. Active in graduate mentorship across his research areas.