Jeremy Schneider
Assistant Professor, History
Academic focus:
My research focuses on the history of science in early modern Europe (ca. 1500–1800), with an emphasis on premodern ways of knowing the earth and environment. Much of my work examines how fossils were studied, encountered, and visually represented in the history of science. While I am deeply invested in the material and technical dimensions of science, I never lose focus on those aspects of scientific knowledge production that make it experiential and human.
Current research project:
I am currently writing a book called “The Graveyard of Shells.” It’s a study of how people used fossilized seashells to understand the extinction of species many centuries before the discovery of the dinosaurs. It’s a project that combines archival research and fieldwork, and it asks what it meant to talk about natural and manmade species-extinction before the invention of modern paleontology.
Previous positions:
- Junior Research Fellow, Trinity College, University of Cambridge, 2023-2025
Academic background:
- Ph.D., History of science, Princeton University, 2023
- M.A., History of science, Princeton University, 2019
- M.A., Philosophy, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 2016
- B.A., History, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 2013
Last book read:
“Essays and Papers in the History of Modern Science” by Henry Guerlac
Fun fact: I bought this in a book shop while hiking through England’s Peak District. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw that my copy was dated to Ithaca, 1977 and signed by Guerlac (a Cornell professor) himself. It contains a personal message to his former student Marie Boas, whom he held in high esteem and affection. It is a nice piece of Cornell history of science memorabilia.
In your own time/when not working:
I love to hike, ski, and play soccer. When I’m not outdoors, you’ll find me at the theatre, museum, or strumming my guitar. My partner and I spend much time with our Aussie Whimsy, and we love to travel.
Courses you’re most looking forward to teaching:
In the spring I’m teaching a course on the history of scientific images. The main question is: Why are certain images deemed “scientific,” and what distinguishes them from works of art? I’m excited to have students explore these problems from a historical perspective and watch them grapple with key concepts in the history of science through their shared fascination with visual images.
What most excites you about Cornell:
I am looking forward to many stimulating conversations with colleagues and students, as well as the opportunity to grow as a scholar and teacher. Cornell is the ideal environment to accomplish these things.
