Evan Dowell

My research offers a historical-geographical account of the changes in internet infrastructures by exploring the complex intersections of the technical and social aspects which determine their lives. I am particularly curious about how internet infrastructures’ embeddedness in various social contexts plays a role in thier spatial patterns. Considering that the expansion and protection of critical digital communications infrastructures is presently a global imperative, my research asks: how do the spatial practices of other industries at the local level influence and shape global geographies of digital communications? Key to my research is the consideration of internet infrastructures’ role in place-making and the contours of regional and national political economic environments.

Prior to starting my doctoral research, I was an Air Force officer working as an engineer/technical manager of various space systems. My research is conducted principally with Professors You-tien Hsing, Sharad Chari, and Nicole Starosielski.