Rate Professor Russell Goulbourne

Professional Summary: Professor Russell Goulbourne

Professor Russell Goulbourne is a distinguished academic at the University of Melbourne, recognized for his expertise in French literature and cultural history. With a career spanning multiple prestigious institutions, he has made significant contributions to the study of early modern French thought and literature, earning international acclaim for his scholarly work.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Goulbourne holds advanced degrees in French studies, reflecting his deep commitment to the field:

• Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in French, University of Oxford
• Master of Arts (MA), University of Oxford
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) with Honours in French, University of Oxford

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Goulbourne’s research focuses on early modern French literature and intellectual history, with particular emphasis on:

• Seventeenth- and eighteenth-century French thought
• The works of Voltaire and other Enlightenment thinkers
• Cultural and literary history of France
• Translation studies and textual editing

Career History and Appointments

Professor Goulbourne has held numerous academic positions at leading institutions, demonstrating a progressive and impactful career trajectory:

• Professor of French Literature, University of Melbourne, Australia (current)
• Dean of the Faculty of Arts, University of Melbourne (current)
• Professor of French, King’s College London, UK (prior to Melbourne)
• Senior Lecturer in French, University of Leeds, UK
• Lecturer in French, University of Manchester, UK

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Professor Goulbourne has been recognized for his contributions to French studies and academia through prestigious awards and fellowships:

• Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities
• Recipient of the British Academy Research Grant for projects on Voltaire
• Honorary Research Fellow, Voltaire Foundation, University of Oxford

Key Publications

Professor Goulbourne has authored and edited numerous influential works in the field of French literature and Enlightenment studies. A selection of his key publications includes:

• Voltaire Comic Dramatist (2006)
• Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the Pursuit of Happiness (co-edited, 2010)
• Edited translations and critical editions of Voltaire’s works, including contributions to the Complete Works of Voltaire series by the Voltaire Foundation
• Numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals such as Modern Language Review and French Studies on Enlightenment literature and philosophy

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Goulbourne’s work has significantly shaped contemporary understanding of Voltaire and the French Enlightenment. His meticulous scholarship and editorial contributions to critical editions have provided invaluable resources for researchers worldwide. As a leader in his field, he has fostered international collaboration in French studies and promoted interdisciplinary approaches to cultural history. His role as Dean of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Melbourne further underscores his influence in shaping academic policy and fostering excellence in the humanities.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Goulbourne is actively engaged in the academic community through public-facing and leadership roles:

• Regular speaker at international conferences on French literature and Enlightenment studies
• Member of editorial boards for prominent journals in French studies
• Contributor to public lectures and seminars, including events hosted by the Voltaire Foundation and the Australian Academy of the Humanities
• Active participant in university governance and strategic development as Dean of the Faculty of Arts