James Lee is a research professor in the School of International Service at American University in Washington, DC. In his faculty role, he directs the Mandala projects that include the Trade Environment Database, the Inventory of Conflict and Environment, and the Global Classroom, a set of online tools and materials. Lee has written numerous books, articles, and reports on trade, environment, conflict, geographic indications, culture, industry, and other issues. His latest two books are Exploring the Gaps: The Vital Links between Trade, Environment and Culture; and Climate Change and Armed Conflict: Hot and Cold Wars. He has worked extensively with the U.S. trade representative and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and has appeared on NPR and the BBC.

Dr. Lee’s work crosses disciplines to reflect the complex world we live in. His August 2009 book, Climate Change and Armed Conflict: Hot and Cold Wars, is a ground breaking look at the nexus of social problems that will result from climate change. His prior book examined the interplay of trade, environment, and culture. His views carry a policy perspective, from experience at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative.