Ruxandra Paul

Ruxandra Paul is a faculty member in the Department of Political Science at Amherst College, where they teach courses ranging from introductory to advanced levels including POSC 470: International Migrations and Politics and POSC 436: European Democracy. Their academic work bridges political science, migration studies, and European Union politics, with a particular focus on how mobility transforms national politics and international relations.

Education:

• PhD (Government), Harvard University
• A.M. (Government), Harvard University
• B.A., summa cum laude, PBK (Political Science - International Relations; French), Williams College

Paul's research examines how migrations transform national politics and international relations, with particular attention to European citizenship enabling free movement across borders. Their work explores political developments in a world where people's experiential space transcends national territories, especially focusing on Central and Eastern Europe. Current research projects include "Citizens of the Market: Free Movement and Political Change in Central and Eastern Europe" (under contract at Oxford University Press) and studies on pandemic politics, cyberpolitics, and aging/ageism.

Paul's publications demonstrate consistent scholarly output in migration politics, with a concentration on European contexts. Their work spans theoretical contributions on transnational citizenship and practical analyses of migration crises, showing an evolving focus from foundational migration studies toward contemporary challenges including pandemic politics and digital governance.

Scientific Awards and Affiliations:

• Minda de Gunzburg Center for European Studies, Harvard University - Visiting Scholar and Local Affiliate
• Harvard Academy for International and Area Studies
• Chateaubriand Fellowship of the French Government
• Weatherhead Center for International Affairs research grant
• Krupp Foundation research grant
• Certificate of Excellence in Teaching, Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning

Paul has received multiple competitive research grants and teaching awards, demonstrating excellence in both research and pedagogy. Their teaching portfolio includes innovative courses like POSC 109: Pandemic Politics: Democracy versus Disease and POSC 239: Acceptable Prejudice: Age, Aging, Ageism, reflecting their commitment to connecting academic research with contemporary issues.

Outside of formal academic work, Paul teaches fitness classes (Barre and Barre Cardio) at the Amherst Gym and maintains diverse interests including music, dance, art, and long-distance running.