Fiona F Shen-Bayh

Dr. Fiona F. Shen-Bayh spearheads initiatives to address the intricate dynamics of authoritarian regimes, with a particular emphasis on the legal and judicial instruments of power in postcolonial Africa. As an Assistant Professor of Government and Politics at the University of Maryland, she holds a joint appointment at the College of Information Studies, where she integrates her expertise in political science with information studies to explore the multifaceted nature of governance and power. Dr. Shen-Bayh's academic journey began with a B.A. in Economics from Vassar College, followed by a Ph.D. in Political Science from UC Berkeley. Her scholarly work delves into the mechanisms through which authoritarian regimes utilize legal frameworks to consolidate power and maintain control. Her research has been published in leading academic journals, contributing significantly to the understanding of political structures in postcolonial contexts. Her contributions to the field have not gone unnoticed, as she has received numerous accolades and funding from prestigious organizations, including the National Science Foundation. Dr. Shen-Bayh's work not only advances academic discourse but also informs policy discussions on governance and legal systems in authoritarian settings. Her dedication to exploring the intersections of law, politics, and power continues to inspire students and colleagues alike at the University of Maryland.