James Brubaker

James Brubaker, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of English at Southeast Missouri State University. He holds a Ph.D. in English (Creative Writing) from Oklahoma State University and has held teaching roles from 2005 to present, including Visiting Assistant Professor, Adjunct Instructor, and roles in composition program development. His research focuses on intersections between identity, popular culture, and narrative form, with a strong emphasis on science fiction and music studies.

Education:

• Ph.D. in English (Creative Writing), Oklahoma State University, 2013
• M.A. in English, Wright State University, 2006
• B.S. in Secondary Integrated Language Arts, Bowling Green State University, 2003

Research Interests:

• Pop culture in fiction
• Identity formation through media
• Science fiction narratives
• Music as cultural artifact

Articles Trends: His work bridges literary analysis and cultural critique, often employing experimental narrative structures to explore themes of technology, identity, and existentialism. Recent publications engage with music albums, films, and fictional universes to dissect societal anxieties and creative expression.

Awards:

• 2021 College of Humanities Professional Development Award
• 2020 Advisor of the Year
• 2014 Pressgang Prize
• Multiple teaching and scholarship awards from Oklahoma State and Wright State Universities

Advising & Grants: Active in curriculum development, student mentorship, and editorial leadership. Served on over 15 committees at Southeast Missouri State, including Tenure/Promotion and Undergraduate Curriculum.

Labs/Teams: Director of Southeast Missouri State University Press, Editor-in-Chief of Big Muddy, and Managing Editor of The Cape Rock. Founded and co-edited The Collapsar (2013–2017).