My work focuses on one of the defining challenges of our time: how democratic societies respond to migration, political polarization, and contested narratives of belonging.
As Professor of Political Science and History at the University of Victoria, I have developed a transatlantic research agenda connecting Europe and North America, examining how citizenship, identity, and collective memory shape democratic resilience.
Over more than two decades, my research has combined academic analysis with public engagement and policy dialogue, with the aim of strengthening inclusive forms of citizenship and democratic governance.
Research Focus
Migration governance and citizenship regimes
Populism and democratic resilience
Memory politics and contested histories
Transatlantic political dynamics
My research explores how migration, political polarization, and collective memory reshape democratic institutions and political communities, with a particular focus on citizenship, identity, and democratic resilience across Europe and North America.
Recognition & Positions
My work has contributed to international debates on migration, citizenship, and the future of liberal democracy.
I have held research appointments and fellowships at leading institutions, including Humboldt University, Harvard University, the University of Hamburg, the European University Institute, and the Hamburg Institute for Advanced Study. My research has been supported, among others, by the J.F. Kennedy Memorial Fellowship, the DAAD North America Visiting Professorship, the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Senior Research Fellowship, the Jean Monnet Chair in European History and Politics, and the Jean Braudel Senior Fellowship.
In 2017, I received the University of Victoria Faculty of Social Sciences Research Excellence Award. In 2025, I stepped down after more than twelve years as Director of the Centre for Global Studies, where I had the privilege of shaping its international profile and research agenda.
In 2026, I was awarded the Humboldt Research Award, one of Germany’s most prestigious international research distinctions. The award recognizes my contribution to advancing transatlantic research on migration, democracy, and political transformation.
Public Engagement & Leadership
A distinctive feature of my work is its strong commitment to public engagement and collaborative research.
I contribute regularly to public debate through national and international media and engage with policymakers, civil society actors, and community organizations on issues of migration, democratic governance, and political transformation.
As Director of the Centre for Global Studies at the University of Victoria for more than twelve years, I developed international research networks linking academia, policy, and practice, and helped shape the Centre’s global profile.
I am co-lead of EUCAnet, a transatlantic platform that connects scholars and practitioners across Europe and North America to foster dialogue on democracy, migration, and political transformation.
I am committed to mentoring the next generation of scholars and public leaders, supporting them in addressing the ethical and political challenges facing contemporary societies.
My work is guided by the aim of strengthening democratic resilience through sustained dialogue between academia, policy, and the public sphere.