Andrew Carnie, Canadian-American linguist, author, and academic

Born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, on April 19, 1969, Andrew Carnie is a distinguished Canadian scholar and a prominent figure in the field of linguistics, currently serving as a professor at the University of Arizona. His career beautifully blends rigorous academic inquiry with a vibrant passion for cultural expression, particularly through dance.

A Distinguished Academic Career

Professor Carnie's academic contributions are substantial and widely recognized. He is the author or coauthor of eight influential books, demonstrating his extensive expertise and prolific output. His scholarly papers delve deeply into formal syntactic theory, a foundational area within linguistics that investigates the underlying structures and universal principles governing how sentences are formed in human languages. Beyond theoretical syntax, he holds a profound interest in the linguistic aspects of Scottish Gaelic and the Irish language, contributing significantly to the understanding and preservation of these rich Celtic tongues. His work on these languages explores their unique grammatical features, phonology, and historical development, offering valuable insights into their place within the broader linguistic landscape.

Bridging Cultures Through Dance

While his intellectual pursuits are centered in linguistics, Andrew Carnie possesses another compelling passion: the teaching of Balkan and international folk dance. This interest highlights a fascinating dimension of his personality, showcasing his commitment to cultural engagement and community building outside the academic sphere. Through dance, he not only preserves and shares traditional forms but also fosters connection and understanding among diverse groups, embodying a holistic approach to cultural appreciation.

Leadership and Recognition at the University of Arizona

Professor Carnie's dedication extends to significant administrative and leadership roles within the University of Arizona. Since 2010, he has served as the faculty director of the University's Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs, overseeing a wide array of innovative academic pursuits that bridge traditional departmental boundaries. His leadership in this capacity supports students and faculty engaged in cutting-edge research across various fields. Furthermore, in August 2012, his capabilities were recognized with his appointment as interim Dean of the graduate college, a crucial role in shaping the university's advanced academic offerings and supporting its graduate student body. His contributions to the field of linguistics were also acknowledged in 2009 when he was named as one of the Linguist List's Linguist of the Day, a notable recognition from a leading online resource for the global linguistics community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Andrew Carnie's primary academic field?
Andrew Carnie's primary academic field is linguistics, with a specialization in formal syntactic theory and the linguistic aspects of Scottish Gaelic and the Irish language.
Where does Professor Carnie teach?
He is a professor of linguistics at the University of Arizona.
What administrative roles has he held at the University of Arizona?
Since 2010, he has been the faculty director of the Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs, and in August 2012, he was appointed interim Dean of the graduate college.
Has Andrew Carnie received any notable academic recognition?
Yes, in 2009, he was named as one of the Linguist List's Linguist of the Day, a recognition from a significant online resource for linguists.
Does he have interests outside of his academic work?
Absolutely! Andrew Carnie is also a passionate teacher of Balkan and international folk dance, demonstrating a deep engagement with cultural expression and community building.