Adjunct Lecturer | Visiting Scholar | Pracademic
International Relations & Conflict Resolution
I am a mixed-methods researcher and peacebuilding practitioner with more than sixteen years of experience across the UNDP, international NGOs, think tanks, and universities. I currently serve as an Adjunct Lecturer at Georgetown University’s Department of Government, where I teach a new graduate course on International Peace Mediation. I am also a Visiting Scholar at George Mason University’s Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, and a Visiting Fellow at the Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs and the Myanmar Research Centre at the Australian National University.
My research examines war termination, peacemaking, and the influence of rebel groups. Alongside several journal articles in progress, I am developing a book manuscript, How Civil Wars End: The Influence of Rebel Groups. My work has been recognized through multiple grants and awards, including from the International Peace Research Association (IPRA) Foundation.
Beyond academia, as a practitioner, I have contributed to peace negotiations across Tracks 1, 1.5, and 2, designed and facilitated dialogue processes, advised on governance transitions, and conducted conflict analyses. My professional and research experience spans South and Southeast Asia, with extensive expertise on Myanmar, and work with local partners in fragile and conflict-affected contexts globally.
Grounded in practitioner experience, my teaching bridges theory and practice. In the classroom, I emphasize applied and experiential learning, using case studies, simulations, and authentic assessments to connect ideas to real-world challenges. I aim to help students develop the analytical and practical skills needed for careers in international affairs.
My commentary has appeared in The New York Times, Reuters, Voice of America, Channel News Asia, ABC News, and War on the Rocks. Based in Washington, DC, I welcome opportunities for research collaboration, academic engagement, and consulting.