About

CISSM Group Photo — Some of CISSM's faculty, staff, students and affiliates

The Center for International and Security Studies at Maryland (CISSM) brings rigorous scholarship and practical insight to today’s most complex global challenges. Through research, education and public engagement, CISSM helps policymakers and the public understand emerging risks, strengthen cooperation and advance evidence-based approaches to global security and governance.

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Our Mission

We help those who make and shape international policy leverage better evidence and timely insights to solve complex global challenges for a safer, more resilient world.

Research and Impact

CISSM’s research and engagement efforts address the interlocking risks that shape global security in the 21st century. Our work spans four cross-cutting themes that connect technological change, human well-being, and international cooperation:

Human Security

Addressing the root causes of conflict, fragility, and inequity—from malnutrition and public health crises to climate-related risks—to strengthen human resilience and well-being.

Cooperative Governance

Advancing effective collaboration among governments, international organizations and civil society to manage shared risks and uphold norms that support peace and stability.

Dual-Use Technology

Exploring the benefits and risks of emerging technologies—from nuclear and cyber systems to artificial intelligence—to promote responsible innovation and reduce the potential for harm.

Managed Competition

Examining how rival powers can balance competition with cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including arms control, crisis management and global public goods.

Learn more about current projects and our Research and Impact.

Community and Legacy

For more than three decades, CISSM has brought together scholars, practitioners, and students committed to advancing cooperative approaches to global security. Founded in 1987 by Catherine M. Kelleher, CISSM has served as an incubator for innovative ideas and a training ground for the next generation of international policy leaders.

Former directors I.M. “Mac” Destler (1991–1999) and John D. Steinbruner (1999–2015) helped expand the center’s influence on policy debates around nuclear weapons, emerging technologies, and global governance. Under the direction of Dr. Nancy Gallagher since 2015, CISSM continues to combine rigorous research with public engagement to help decision-makers navigate emerging global challenges.

In the words of former School of Public Policy Dean Robert Orr, CISSM is “one of the most important institutions that not only we have at the University of Maryland, but that the world of international policy and security has”—a testament to the center’s enduring contributions and global reach.

Today, CISSM’s network of faculty, researchers, students and alumni continues to advance innovative ideas and foster collaboration across disciplines and borders. Learn more about how we build A Thriving Community.

About the Director

Nancy Gallagher

Research Professor; Director, CISSM

Dr. Nancy W. Gallagher is the Director of the Center for International and Security Studies at Maryland (CISSM) and a Research Professor in the School of Public Policy.

Areas of Interest

International security; arms control & nonproliferation; nuclear policy; cybersecurity; space security

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Get Involved

Support CISSM’s mission by contributing to our fellowships, research initiatives and student programs. Learn more about opportunities to give and engage.

CISSM also invests in the next generation of scholars and practitioners advancing cooperative approaches to global challenges. Explore how we work with School of Public Policy students and researchers to produce Next Generation Scholarship with real-world impact.