Robert Haug

Robert Haug is an Associate Professor of Islamic World History in the Department of History at the University of Cincinnati, where he has taught since 2010. He also serves as Director of the Program in Middle Eastern Studies since 2014, having progressed from Visiting Assistant Professor (2010-2011) to Educator Assistant Professor (2011-2012), Assistant Professor (2012-2018), and Associate Professor (2018-present).

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Near Eastern Studies, University of Michigan (2010)
• MA in Modern Middle Eastern and North African Studies, University of Michigan (2002)
• BA in Geography and History, DePaul University (1999)

Professor Haug specializes in the early Islamic World (7th-13th centuries) with deep expertise in the Iranian World and Central Asia. His research examines frontier dynamics, state formation, nomadic-agrarian interactions, and representations of masculinity in medieval chronicles, particularly regarding conquest narratives of Iran and Central Asia. He teaches diverse courses including World History, the Crusades, Abbasid Caliphate studies, and Afghanistan/Central Asia history.

His publication record reveals consistent focus on Islamic frontier theory, political authority, and cultural identity. Recent works critically analyze representations of jihad, taxation systems, and gender in medieval sources, while his influential book The Eastern Frontier (2019) redefines understanding of empire limits in Central Asia. His interdisciplinary approach connects historical analysis with contemporary relevance, notably in comparing Game of Thrones narratives to actual Islamic military practices.

His scientific recognition includes:

• Charles Phelps Taft Research Center Summer Research Fellowship (2013)

As an educator, Haug mentors undergraduate and graduate students while serving on multiple departmental committees including Undergraduate Studies, Executive, and Graduate Studies. His leadership in the Middle Eastern Studies Program involves curriculum development, faculty coordination, and student engagement through History Club and Phi Alpha Theta sponsorship. Current research on masculinity in conquest narratives builds on his expertise in medieval chronicle analysis.

He directs the University of Cincinnati's Middle Eastern Studies Program, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration through course offerings, public lectures like his ISIS history presentation, and active participation in regional academic networks including the Middle East Studies Committee and European Studies Committee.