Sina Azodi, ESIA BA ’10, MA ’13

Sina Azodi is a PhD candidate in International Affairs at the University of South Florida. His research interests include international security, nuclear non-proliferation, and US-Iranian relations. He previously worked as a Research Assistant at Princeton University’s Program on Science and Global Security and Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Sina is a frequent commentator on both English and Persian speaking media, including BBC Persian service, Sky News, Al-Jazeera, TRT World and i24. His analysis has appeared in Columbia University’s Journal of International Affairs, The National Interest, LobeLog, and the Middle East Institute. Sina earned his BA and MA in International Affairs from GW’s Elliott School of International Affairs. Follow him on Twitter: @azodiac83.

What is your current research project?

My research project focuses on Iran’s nuclear program from its inception in the 1950s until 2003. It specifically focuses on how Iranians view the nuclear program as essential to their security and a symbol of Iran’s entry to the nuclear club. It seeks to analyze the strategic logic of Iran’s nuclear program and its roots.

I believe GW’s Gelman library and National Security Archive provide essential resources that are vital to my research.

What advice do you have for students thinking about going on to a PhD program?

Do not get discouraged if you are rejected — keep trying and make sure you have related work experience. Do not forget to take the GRE seriously.