Dr. Brian Lander

Biography

Brian G. Lander is an Associate Professor specializing in environmental history, particularly the long-term transformation of natural ecosystems in China. His research focuses on the Yellow and Yangzi river valleys, exploring the interplay between human societies and natural ecosystems, including farms, tree plantations, and fish ponds. He studies how historical transformations have impacted hundreds of millions of people in China's lowlands, tracing the evolution of ecosystems and understanding the role of domesticated plants and animals in the growth of states and empires. Lander is the author of 'King's Harvest: Political Ecology in China', which reflects his expertise. He teaches courses that encapsulate global East Asian environmental history, examining how diverse evidence contributes to our understanding of human impacts on the environment across different temporal and spatial scales. His course offerings include 'Ecological Imperialism', 'China’s Environmental History: Sources and Themes', and 'Histories of Global Wetlands' among others, encouraging comparative analysis of environmental changes. He has been involved in various prestigious fellowships and educational programs, enhancing his academic contributions and research in the field.

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Experience

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