Research

As an interdisciplinary scholar, I explore the intersections of geopolitics, security, and global governance, with a focus on Eurasia and Africa. My research in geopolitics and energy security, infrastructure security, terrorism and cybersecurity, foreign policy, and institutionalism informs policy, advances academic discourse, and addresses global challenges.

Geopolitics and Energy Security

Energy resources are pivotal to global power dynamics, shaping alliances, trade, and security frameworks. My research examines how states leverage energy for geopolitical influence, focusing on Eurasia and Africa, where energy flows intersect with sovereignty and development.

• I analyse energy security challenges, including supply stability, price volatility, and infrastructure risks, to inform foreign policy and regional cooperation.
• My work highlights how strategic alliances and infrastructure diplomacy secure energy markets, particularly in volatile geopolitical theatres.

Infrastructure Security

Critical energy infrastructure—electricity grids, pipelines, and renewable systems—is vital to national and global stability. My research addresses the growing threats to these systems, driven by cyber warfare, terrorism, and geopolitical rivalry.

• I explore how states and organisations collaborate to protect infrastructure, enhancing resilience through risk management and regulatory convergence.
• My findings inform policies to safeguard interconnected energy networks, crucial for economic and governance frameworks.

Terrorism and Cybersecurity

Terrorism and cyber threats challenge global security, exploiting digital infrastructures and undermining trust. My research investigates how these asymmetric tactics destabilise states and test international norms.

• I combine strategic studies and international law to assess evolving doctrines of deterrence and conflict regulation.
• Through teaching, I engage students with case studies, framing these threats as central to contemporary international politics.

Foreign Policy

Foreign policy shapes international relations through diplomacy, alliances, and economic strategies. My research focuses on policy coherence, examining how states align actions with strategic goals and domestic priorities.

• I analyse negotiation dynamics and alliance management, particularly in Eurasia and Africa, to understand diplomatic stability.
• My work informs policymakers on mitigating credibility issues and navigating shifting global power dynamics.

Institutionalism

Institutionalism explores how institutions shape global governance through rules, norms, and cooperation. My research examines how bilateral, minilateral, and multilateral frameworks regulate political and security interactions.

• I investigate the role of state and non-state actors, including transnational corporations, in norm development and dispute resolution.
• My findings highlight institutions’ adaptability in addressing global challenges, from energy security to economic governance.

The geographical scope of my research includes Eurasia and Africa.

Ongoing Research Projects

• Challenges for Japan and South Korea in Seeking Energy Cooperation Amid Sino-Russian Partnership in Northeast Asia (individual project)

• The Role of Sino–Russian Cooperation in the Northeast Asian Energy Regime (dissertation topic)