معرفی
Julia Irwin is the T. Harry Williams Professor of History at Louisiana State University's College of Humanities & Social Sciences. Her research focuses on US humanitarianism, disaster diplomacy, and the intersection of foreign policy with global crises. She currently edits The Journal of Disaster Studies and the InterConnections book series. Irwin holds a PhD from Yale University (2009) and has taught courses on diplomatic history, pandemics, and the Cold War.
Education:
- PhD in History, Yale University, 2009
- MPhil in History, Yale University, 2007
- MA in History, Yale University, 2006
- BA in History, Oberlin College, 2004
Her research explores how humanitarian aid shaped US global engagement, particularly during the 20th century. Current projects include a book on humanitarianism’s historical evolution and analyses of climate-induced migration. Her work bridges disaster studies, international relations, and transnational history.
Irwin’s publications emphasize the political dimensions of disaster response, showing how crises became tools of diplomacy. Her articles frequently address Cold War-era relief efforts, the militarization of aid, and the gendered aspects of caregiving in global contexts.
Awards:
- 2020 Stuart L. Bernath Lecture Prize
- 2018 Roger D. Bridges Distinguished Service Award
- OAH Distinguished Lecturer (2017–2023)
She advises on disaster studies and US foreign relations, contributing to policy discussions on climate migration and humanitarian governance. Irwin’s interdisciplinary work fosters collaboration between historians, policymakers, and disaster-response practitioners.
Her lab/team activities include co-editing Journal of Disaster Studies and directing LSU’s global history initiatives. Upcoming projects explore the historical roots of contemporary climate crises and the ethics of disaster capitalism.
