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Rankin is the author of several influential publications, including "Panaceia's Daughters" and "The Poison Trials," which have contributed significantly to the field of history. These works delve into the complexities of medical practices and the societal roles of women in early modern Europe, offering fresh perspectives and insights. Her research not only highlights the historical significance of these topics but also underscores their relevance to contemporary discussions on gender and science.
In the classroom, Rankin is known for her engaging teaching style and her ability to bring history to life for her students. She offers courses on Renaissance and Reformation Europe, gender and family, science and medicine, and the history of the book. Her innovative approach often includes the use of rare books and archival materials, providing students with a hands-on experience that enriches their understanding of historical contexts.
Rankin's research interests are broad and interdisciplinary, extending to collaborations in Science and Technology Studies (STS), Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, International Relations (IR), and Environmental Studies. This interdisciplinary approach allows her to explore the intersections of history with other fields, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the past and its implications for the present and future.
Her commitment to interdisciplinary research and teaching is reflected in her active participation in various academic communities. Rankin is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment where scholars from different disciplines can come together to explore complex historical questions. Her work not only contributes to the academic community but also inspires students and colleagues alike to think critically about the ways in which history informs our understanding of the world.
Through her research and teaching, Alisha Rankin continues to make significant contributions to the field of history, particularly in the areas of gender, science, and medicine. Her work not only enriches our understanding of early modern Europe but also challenges us to consider the broader implications of historical study in addressing contemporary issues.
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The History Department at Tufts University in Medford, MA, provides a dynamic and engaging environment for studying the past and its profound influence on the present and future. Located within the School of Arts and Sciences at this private research university with a strong liberal arts core, the department empowers students to critically analyze historical events, understand diverse human experiences, and develop compelling narratives. Faculty are deeply committed to both innovative research and teaching, covering a broad spectrum of periods, regions, and themes. This rigorous foundation cultivates strong analytical, research, and writing skills, preparing graduates from this supportive community for a wide variety of impactful careers beyond academia.
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Tufts University is a private research university located in the Greater Boston area. The main campus is located in the Walnut Hill neighborhood of the towns of Medford and Somerville, Massachusetts, with additional facilities located in Boston and Grafton, Massachusetts and in Talloires, France. It was founded in 1852 as Tufts College by Christian universalists who sought to provide a nonsectarian institution of higher learning. Tufts remained a small liberal arts college until the 1970s, when it transformed into a large research university offering several doctorates.