Jason Ludden (he/him) joined the University Writing Program in 2024. His courses often approach contemporary issues using interdisciplinary approaches to examine the role scientists and technical experts play in shaping public debate. His past courses have examined environmental policy, biopolitics and genetics, and decolonizing research methodologies.
Ludden holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and forestry from the University of Wisconsin, a Master’s in Fine Arts in creative writing (fiction) from Oregon State University, and a Ph.D. in English (Composition and Rhetoric) from the University of Nevada, Reno. His doctoral specializations are the rhetoric of science and environmental communication.
Before joining JHU, Jason was the director of the office of undergraduate fellowships and a teaching associate professor in English at the University of Nevada, Reno. In addition to helping students apply for the Rhodes Scholarship, Fulbright Program, and NSF-GRFP, he taught first-year writing and courses on science, technology, and society. Additionally, he developed an interdisciplinary international research program, funded by NSF, that supports undergraduate students conducting research on Human-Elephant Conflict around Wasgamuwa National Park in Sri Lanka. Ludden’s work with students on environmental issues in postcolonial spaces has informed his scholarly approach and pedagogy. His courses are designed to encourage students to rely on their own experiences to develop their voice and also understand their position in the world as a scholar and researcher.
- Rhetoric of Science
- Science, Technology, and Society Studies
- Environmental Communication
- Technical Communication