Policy Relevance & Societal Impact

Ever since I completed my PhD, I sought a career with policy impact: starting with a research role at RAND, which conducts research on behalf of the U.S. Department of Defense (among other sponsors), and then working as a civil servant for the U.S. Department of State. Though I resigned due to policy differences with the Trump administration, I found public service to be incredibly meaningful, and whatever I do next, it is important that my work has policy relevance and societal impact.

Having had policy experience, I understand what kinds of research is relevant for policymakers - both in the sense of what is immediately actionable for them and what is important context for them to have when they make decisions that take longer to gestate but also have longer-term effects. On a day-to-day basis, the kind of snap analyses I do for The Diplomat is more useful for increasing the accuracy of bureaucrats’ tactical, situational awareness; at a higher level of abstraction, the kind of research I contributed to at the RAND Corporation helps policymakers better understand the world and make informed, strategic-level decisions.

I also understand the importance of shaping public opinion for policymaking, and am committed to disseminating my research widely to increase the public’s awareness of important security issues and for maximum societal impact.

Originality

I value doing original work, and there are several ways that I can do so. First, looking ahead at future challenges before they become the subject of mainstream research (e.g., the national security implications of Japan’s aging). Second, being willing to point out uncomfortable contradictions or painful trade-offs, whether to provoke debate and analysis or to propagate new perspectives if they are backed by rigorous, objective analysis (e.g., Japan may be a more effective U.S. ally by focusing on its regional responsibilities than trying to take on more global responsibilities). Third, focusing not just on what worked to draw lessons for the future, but also on what failed (e.g., comparing successful and failed alliance negotiations that Japan was a party to surfaced the important role of domestic politics in successful alliance formation). These are just some of the ways that I have been original in my past work; whatever my new role, I am committed to bringing the same spirit of courage and creativity.

Democracy & Liberalism

I support strengthening cooperation among liberal democracies to help make liberal democracies safer, stronger, and more prosperous. I also support helping the spread of liberal and democratic ideals and practices.

Kindness & Respect

Treating my colleagues - and being treated by my colleagues - with kindness and respect is important to me in a workplace.