Michael Wala

Prof. Dr. Michael Wala is a Senior Researcher (since October 2022) and former Professor of North American History (2004–2022) at Ruhr University Bochum. He holds academic degrees from the Hochschule für Wirtschaft und Politik, Hamburg (Diplom-Volkswirt, 1978), University of Wisconsin-Madison (MA in History, 1982), and University of Hamburg (Dr. phil., Summa Cum Laude, 1988). He completed his Habilitation at the University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (Dr. rer. pol. habil., 1996). His research focuses on North American history, transatlantic/international relations, and the history of intelligence services. Notable works include a co-authored book on Otto John (2019) and editorial roles in intelligence history journals.

Education:

• Diplom-Volkswirt (Economics), Hochschule für Wirtschaft und Politik, Hamburg (1978)
• MA in History, University of Wisconsin-Madison (1982)
• Dr. phil., University of Hamburg (1988)
• Habilitation (Dr. rer. pol. habil.), University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (1996)

Research & Professional Activities:

Wala’s work emphasizes transatlantic dynamics, intelligence history, and U.S. cultural history. He has held visiting positions at Stanford University (1991–1992, 1997), St. Olaf College (2000–2001), and the University of Wales (1999). He co-edited the Journal of Intelligence History (2001–2010) and serves on editorial boards for intelligence studies. His 2019 book on Otto John, first director of Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, highlights his expertise in security history.

Awards & Recognition:

No specific awards mentioned in the text.

Advising & Grants:

No student advisees or grant details listed.

Labs/Teams:

No dedicated labs or research teams explicitly mentioned.