Dr. Jonathan Hall (’23), a cyber intelligence practitioner at Recorded Future, has joined the IWP faculty to teach a new course on Geopolitics and Strategy of Cyberspace (IWPO 729).
“In an era where online events are as consequential as those offline, understanding cyberspace is essential for national security practitioners,” said Dr. Hall. “This course provides students with the foundation to understand current events in the digital age, analyze trends, and anticipate future risks.”
The course is designed to provide students with an understanding of cyberspace, both from a technical perspective as well as the ways in which it influences modern-day aspects of international relations and national security. At a general level, it focuses on the advent of cyber capabilities and the digital age.
Students will explore core concepts related to political topics such as Internet governance, as well as the technical aspects of both offensive and defensive cyber operations. With this understanding, they will then analyze the ways in which cyber capabilities alter the security landscape. For example, how does cyber, as an instrument of statecraft, affect the practices of intelligence, warfare, or influence operations? The role of non-state actors will also be examined, with course modules focused on issues facing the private sector, the impact of cybercrime, and the state’s use of proxy forces.
Upon completion of the course, students will have a functional understanding of each area as it relates to the broader topics of geopolitics, international security, and strategy.
In his current role at Recorded Future, Dr. Hall advises in both the private and public sectors on the implementation of intelligence into cybersecurity programs.
His academic interests include cyber operations, private military contractors, and Eurasian geopolitics. In particular, much of his work involves the interplay between cyberspace and national security both from a strategic and technical point of view.
He received dual bachelor’s degrees in International Affairs, Russian, and Criminology from Florida State University, his master’s in International Relations from Central European University in Budapest, Hungary, and his doctorate from IWP where his research focused on cyberspace as an enabling element to Russian and Chinese political warfare strategy.
Beyond his formal education, Dr. Hall has a technical background in cybersecurity and holds certifications in network defense, risk management, and ethical hacking.
Dr. Hall commented: “It’s a privilege to join IWP and work with students on the real-world challenges emerging at the intersection of technology and international affairs. I’m very much looking forward to contributing to the Institute’s broader mission and helping prepare the next generation of national security professionals.”