RESEARCHER & PRACTITIONER

Peace, Conflict, and Governance

I am a Washington DC-based researcher (PhD) and peacebuilding practitioner with 16 years of experience working for INGOs, the UNDP, think tanks, and universities. As a Visiting Fellow at the Australian National University's Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs, I am working on papers and a thesis-to-book project (How Civil Wars End: The Influence of Rebel Groups). I have received numerous awards and grants for research and other projects, mostly recently including support from the International Peace Research Association (IPRA) Foundation. My academic research interests include war outcomes, rebel groups, peacemaking, and power-sharing.

As a published mixed-methods researcher, I integrate quantitative and qualitative approaches, including large-N observational studies, process tracing, and elite interviews. I have extensive experience conducting field research, including rebel-held territories, and managing research teams, large databases, and research projects from inception through to dissemination.

My practitioner experience in conflict-affected countries has a unique influence on my research. Across South and Southeast Asia, I have experience working on peace negotiations, peacebuilding, violence reduction, conflict analysis, and governance transitions. I possess in-depth expertise in Myanmar and have experience working in Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. I have worked globally with local partners in fragile and conflict-affected countries. 

As a trainer and instructor, I have experience in designing curricula and courses, as well as teaching adult learners of diverse ages, cultural backgrounds, and educational levels. I teach using real-life case studies and authentic assessments. As a certified mediator and skilled facilitator, I incorporate dialogue into learning processes.

My media commentary has appeared in various outlets, including The New York Times, Channel News Asia, Reuters, Voice of America, ABC News, and War on the Rocks. I have spoken at numerous conferences and briefed senior government officials, elected members of governments, and business executives.

I am open to ideas for research collaborations and am currently seeking academic opportunities. I am also available to provide part-time consulting services. Connect with me via LinkedIn or email!