Biography

My research interests are in strategic theory and security studies, with particular emphasis on the ideas of classical strategic thinkers and their influence on contemporary strategic issues. I am presently finishing my Ph.D., where I have been investigating the modern validity of the ‘Clausewitzian Trinity’ as an explanatory model for understanding the nature of war.
During my year at the EUI I will be continuing my research into issues of strategic theory and will examine the relationship between strategic imperative and force structures in contemporary war. I also hope to develop my interest in the concept of ‘victory’ and its application to modern conflict.
Although in the process of completing my doctorate, I have a wide experience of teaching on a variety of courses. Though I presently teach on introductory courses in Politics and International Relations at the University of Aberdeen, I have teaching experience within the Department of Politics and International Relations at Royal Holloway, University of London, within the War Studies Department at Kings College London, and at the UK Joint Services Command and Staff College.
At present I am awaiting the publication of my first article, to be published as ‘New or Old Wars? Debating a Clausewitzian Future’, in The Journal of Strategic Studies (April, 2009). It is also my intention to work on the publication of my thesis.