Michael Beck joins research team at CITS
Michael Beck, a nonproliferation and trade control expert with over 15 years of experience in the field, is the newest senior researcher to join the Center for International Trade and Security (CITS) at the UGA’s School of Public and International Affairs. Dr. Beck has conducted field research in more than a dozen countries, and authored a system for evaluating trade security that is currently used by the U.S. Department of State. He was also the director of the Carl Vinson Institute of Government’s International Center at UGA from 2007-2010.
“With the addition of Dr. Michael Beck to our staff, the University of Georgia will augment its leadership role in nonproliferation and related areas,” said CITS director William W. Keller. “Mike Beck is a world-class expert in strategic trade controls and nonproliferation.”
Strategic trade control, a major focus of CITS research, is the process by which governments use trade laws and enforcement to combat the spread of dangerous chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) materials and technologies to terrorist organizations and countries of concern. Dr. Beck’s presence will help CITS expand the scope of its research and outreach to governments on how to use strategic trade controls to promote security, legitimate high-technology trade, public health, and safety.
In addition to his research and outreach duties, Dr. Beck said he looks forward to mentoring students through the Center’s expanding educational programs: “The Richard B. Russell Security Leadership Program and the new Nonproliferation and International Security masters concentration make CITS one of the best training grounds for those aspiring to work on nuclear security, nonproliferation, and trade security issues.”
CITS is affiliated with the University of Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs. The Center is highly regarded for its standard-setting research and educational programs in nonproliferation and security.
