Our Research Programmes

We analyse the development and application of cyber policy and strategy, cyber as a tool of statecraft and cyberspace as an arena for geopolitical competition.

We focus on understanding and assessing cyber threats from state and non-state actors and evaluate responses and risk management approaches to mitigate them.

We examine the impact of disruptive technologies on national security, economic growth and the role of technology in an era of geopolitical competition.

We analyse the role of hosting services and infrastructure in the national security and defence space.

As part of this programme of work, we conduct extensive research on ongoing conflicts and adversary capabilities.

We study supply chains, resilience, industrial capacity, technological advantage and the commitment of forces and means to advance strategic objectives.

We scan the horizon of future operational problems and how forces may be trained, structured and equipped to solve emerging challenges.

Our evidence-led analysis helps governments, industry, and civil society understand how energy markets, technologies and global supply chains impact national and international security.

This theme focuses on the multifaceted relationship between climate change, environmental and human security, activism, and organised crime.

We seek to understand the role that civil nuclear power plays as an instrument of geopolitics, and how to mitigate potential security and safety risks of its spread.

This programme focuses on the development and implementation of effective anti-financial crime policies and regulation both in the UK and internationally.

This programme focuses on sanctions, economic security, and the financial dimension of state threats.

Our work on organised crime and corruption explores the dynamics of illicit markets and the drivers and enablers that sustain them in order to inform effective policy responses.

The European Security in Transformation Programme analyses perennial and emerging security challenges for the wider Euro-Atlantic region within the context of the UK’s national security.

This programme analyses the domestic politics and foreign policy of Russia and security dynamics in the Black Sea, South Caucasus and Central Asia.

This programme covers security in the region that is the global centre of gravity for economic growth, technological development, and geopolitical competition: the Indo-Pacific.

A dialogue between the US and its European allies on how to refresh the transatlantic security relationship in response to a shifting international environment.

We examine the fast-evolving security and defence agenda in Latin America and consider the most effective ways to counter the leading threats across the region.

This programme examines transnational dynamics in the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey within a shifting global order.

We explore how interconnected structural, political, social, economic and environmental factors shape and drive conflict dynamics, radicalisation and instability.

We examine how societies can prevent violence and harmful influences, strengthen resilience and protect social cohesion and democratic values.

We examine how security threats operate, who is behind them and their impact on individuals, communities and societies.

We examine how societies can strengthen protection, stability and resilience amid conflict and security threats.