Julian C. Chambliss

A leader in transformative education, Julian C. Chambliss serves as a Professor of English and the Val Berryman Curator of History at Michigan State University. His academic pursuits are deeply rooted in the exploration of race, culture, and power, with a particular focus on how these elements manifest in both real and imagined spaces. Chambliss's work is characterized by a commitment to understanding the complexities of identity and place, often through the lens of critical Afrofuturism and Black digital humanities. Chambliss has made significant contributions to the field through his literary works, including "Assembling the Marvel Cinematic Universe" and "Making Sense of Digital Humanities." These publications reflect his interest in the intersection of popular culture and digital media, offering insights into how narratives shape and are shaped by societal forces. His research often delves into the dynamics of power and representation, examining how cultural artifacts influence and reflect racial and social identities. In addition to his written work, Chambliss has been actively involved in curating exhibitions that highlight Afrofuturism and visual culture. These collaborations have provided platforms for exploring the rich tapestry of Black cultural expression and its impact on broader cultural narratives. His exhibitions are known for their innovative approach to storytelling, blending historical context with contemporary artistic practices. Chambliss's engagement with digital media extends to his role as a co-producer and host of podcasts such as "Every Tongue Got to Confess" and "Reframing History." Through these platforms, he fosters dialogue on historical and cultural topics, bringing diverse voices and perspectives to the forefront. His podcasts are celebrated for their ability to connect academic discourse with public audiences, making complex ideas accessible and engaging. At Michigan State University, Chambliss co-directs the Department of English Digital Humanities and Literary Cognition Lab. In this capacity, he plays a pivotal role in advancing research that intersects with technology and literature, promoting innovative methodologies in the study of texts and cultural phenomena. His leadership in the lab underscores his dedication to integrating digital tools into humanities research, enhancing the ways in which scholars engage with and interpret cultural materials. Chambliss is also actively involved with MSU's Consortium for Critical Diversity in a Digital Age Research. Through this collaboration, he contributes to critical diversity research, focusing on how digital technologies can be leveraged to address issues of equity and inclusion. His work with the consortium highlights his commitment to fostering an academic environment that values diversity and seeks to challenge traditional power structures within the digital realm.