Trained at Harvard University in the U.S. and Cambridge University in England, Professor Lagomarsino's field is early modern Europe with particular emphasis on Spain. Besides courses on early modern Europe and on Spain's "Golden Age," he teaches a research seminar on 16th-17th century Europe, a first-year seminar on the European conflict that culminated in the launching of the Spanish Armada, and he collaborates in History 3. His own research concentrates on the institutions of the Habsburg monarchy in Spain, and particularly on the court of Philip II.

A three-time recipient of the Jerome Goldstein Award for Distinguished Teaching, students and alumni who have studied with Lagomarsino during his 40 years at Dartmouth say that "his talent for engaging others is what makes him a great teacher."  Bestowed each year by a vote of the graduating class, the award recognizes "undergraduate teaching of the highest order."