Ian Willison

Ian Willison serves as a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of English Studies, School of Advanced Study, University of London. His work bridges historical print culture with contemporary digital preservation challenges.

His research spans English Literature and the History of the Book, with specialized focus on:

• Imperial and post-imperial book history across South Asia and Africa
• Evolution of national printed archives from Panizzi's era to digital systems
• Transnational cultural exchange through publishing

His scholarship examines how political transformations reshape literary dissemination and archival practices.

Notable recognition includes:

• CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for contributions to literary scholarship

Willison actively shapes academic discourse through conference leadership, having co-organized the 2011 'Publishing in Hot and Cold Wars' symposium and convened the 2004 'History of the Book and International Cultures' forum at the Institute of English Studies. His work connects historical print traditions with modern digital humanities challenges, particularly regarding archival access and postcolonial knowledge systems.