James Austin

James P. Austin is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of English at the University of Connecticut, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on writing pedagogy, literacy development, and transnational education.

Education includes:

• Ph.D. Education, University of California, Santa Barbara (2015)
• M.A. Education, University of California, Santa Barbara (2012)
• M.F.A. English (Fiction), University of California, Irvine (2004)
• M.A. English (Creative Writing), Iowa State University (2002)
• B.A. English, Wittenberg University (1998)

Research explores writing transfer across academic contexts, creative nonfiction pedagogy, literacy development in transnational settings, and writing program administration. Recent work examines pandemic-era teaching strategies and developmental writing support.

Publications focus on writing pedagogy innovations, literacy trajectories of Egyptian students, and civic engagement in transnational universities. Common themes include writing transfer, curriculum development, and inclusive pedagogy strategies for diverse student populations.

Awards and honors include:

• Excellence in Teaching Award (2024)
• Davis Educational Foundation grants (2021-2023)
• Emergent Research Award from NCTE/CCCC (2017-2019)

Has advised graduate students including Moisés de Lima and Gilberto Pereira, and undergraduate honors students Leila Dennis and Julia Conant. Secured multiple grants for writing program development and research.

Administrative roles include Developmental Writing Specialist and HON 115 Coordinator at Central Connecticut State University, with focus on curriculum alignment and writing program assessment.