Fields
Northern Ireland focusing on Loyalist paramilitaries, in particular the Ulster Volunteer Force and Red Hand Commando and their political development.
Problems Facing Societies Making the Transition to a Post-Conflict Society.
Cultural impact of the Great War in European and World History
Modern European History
History of Russia and the Soviet Union
- Sheth International Achievement Award, 2024
- Pitt News “Best of” Professor of the Year, 2024
- Awarded the Belfast International Homecoming Medal for Service to Northern Ireland, 2024
- Appointed as an Honorary MBE for Services to Northern Ireland and the Study USA Programme, 2023
- CGS Student Choice for Outstanding Teacher, 2018
- Chancellor’s Distinguished Public Service Award, 2017
- Ampco-Pittsburgh Prize for Excellence in Advising, 2011
- Pan-Hellenic Council Professor of the Year Award, 2009
- CGS Professor of the Year Award, 2008
- Faculty Honor Roll, 2000, 2007, 2008
- Who’s Who Among American Educators, 2004, 2005, 2006
Awards
Recent Publications
Northern Ireland's Lost Opportunity: The Frustrated Promise of Political Loyalism (Pluto Press, 2013)
Research Interests
- Political and sectarian violence and the development of politics within the Ulster Volunteer Force and Red Hand Commando between 1972 - 1987.
- Study of the origins and impact of mass violence in Europe between 1914 and 1945.
- Memory and Commemoration in Northern Ireland around the Irish and Northern Irish History
- Memory and Commemoration in Europe of the Great War.
