National Security Scholars and Practitioners Program (NSSPP)

The National Security Scholars and Practitioners Program (NSSPP) is a weeklong workshop that gathers a diverse group of mid-career professionals to explore the character of contemporary war and its future.

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The NSSPP gathers 25-30 individuals in the mid-stage of their careers for a one-week workshop on the future of war, exploring U.S. competitive advantages and disadvantages, large questions about the changing nature of conflict, the use of alternative scenarios to understand them, and possible implications for the United States, to include strategy and force structure.

Participants have the opportunity to engage with their peers, senior scholar-teachers, and distinguished guests in both the formal program and informal discussions. Past distinguished guests and faculty have included Strategic Studies and Merrill Center Director Dr. Mara Karlin, Dean Eliot Cohen, LTG David Barno (USA, ret.), Dr. Nora Bensahel, Ambassador Eric Edelman, Dr. Thomas Mahnken, Prof. John McLaughlin, Dr. Thomas Rid, Prof. Adam Szubin, and General Angus Campbell of the Australian Defence Forces, among others. Joining the program this year will be Strategic Studies’ new Associate Director, Dr. Paula Thornhill (Brig Gen USAF, ret.).

The JHU SAIS Merrill Center covers associated costs, including domestic economy travel, meals, and lodging for the duration of the program. If selected, participants must commit to attending the entire workshop and to being an active participant in workshop preparation and discussions. Participants should expect substantial readings in advance and may be asked to give short presentations.

Applicants must have a minimum of 10 years post-undergraduate work experience in national security, international affairs, or a related field. Participants will be selected to ensure a balance among several categories: government; academia; business/private sector; and outside influencers (including think tanks, Federally Funded Research Centers, consulting firms, defense industry, and journalism). We also encourage those who have a variety of experiences or unique experience that may not fall strictly into a category above to apply.

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The application period for the 2020 National Security Scholars and Practitioners Program (NSSPP) is now closed.

National Security Scholars and Practitioners Program, 2019 Cohort

The National Security Scholars and Practitioners Program takes place on the shores of Lake Champlain.