Justin Conrad’s journey into global security was influenced by a profound interest in international relations and a dedication to comprehending conflict.

“I’ve always been intrigued by the mechanisms of the world — how various cultures, political landscapes, and historical narratives intertwine,” Conrad noted.

Conrad, the Gary K. Bertsch Director of the Center for International Trade and Security (CITS) and professor of international relations at UGA, initiated his academic career at Florida State University, later obtaining a master’s degree from UCLA. Straight out of graduate school, Conrad acquired professional experience at a public affairs agency and devoted considerable time in Latin America, particularly Colombia. It was during this time, observing the harrowing ramifications of violence, that he cultivated a strong resolve to systematically comprehend and curb terrorism.

This objective eventually drew him back to FSU, where he obtained his Ph.D. in political science. During and after this phase, Conrad served as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve, a role that continues to inform his research today. His intelligence endeavors combined with his academic background enable him to offer a distinctive dual viewpoint — one founded in academic inquiry and the other grounded in practical experience — enhancing both his scholarly work and his contributions to national security.

“I recognized early that to truly grasp conflict, one must view it from various angles. That’s why I spent time in the field, and that’s why I’m devoted to integrating theory and practice in everything I pursue,” Conrad explained.

Steering the Center for International Trade and Security

Since his arrival at the University of Georgia in 2019, Conrad has directed CITS with a mission to confront global security challenges. Under his leadership, CITS has evolved into a critical center for applied research, bridging the divide between academic insights and practical security concerns.

“At CITS, we’re not merely contemplating the future of security — we’re actively influencing it,” he asserted.

Conrad envisions his role as dual-faceted: forming interdisciplinary teams of specialists to address global issues and mentoring the forthcoming generation of leaders.

“I firmly believe that one of our most vital responsibilities is to cultivate the leaders who will confront tomorrow’s security challenges. This entails establishing connections between diverse fields and viewpoints — whether it’s nuclear security, cyber threats, or energy policy,” Conrad mentioned.

To advance this goal, CITS collaborates with departments across UGA, including engineering, computer science, and public health, on extensive projects financed by federal agencies and private institutions.

Nurturing future national security leaders

A key element of CITS is its dedication to educating students and developing leadership. Conrad emphasizes providing hands-on experiences for students through a variety of specialized initiatives.

The Richard B. Russell Security Leadership Program prepares elite undergraduate students to emerge as future leaders in national security, granting them the skills and experiences essential to thrive in a swiftly changing field. Furthermore, the Master of International Policy program allows students to concentrate on security-centric disciplines, providing them with the expertise required to navigate intricate global challenges.

“Our students aren’t just absorbing knowledge about security — they’re actively engaged in making a difference. They’re involved in significant projects, and that practical experience provides them with the necessary tools to excel,” Conrad expressed.

These initiatives are crafted to furnish students with both the theoretical foundation and practical exposure essential for success in national and international security careers.

Alongside research and classroom learning, CITS facilitates experiential learning opportunities that take students to locales like Washington, D.C., nuclear facilities such as Plant Vogtle, and national laboratories like Oak Ridge and Savannah River.

“These experiences are transformative for our students,” Conrad stated. “They witness the practical dimensions of security, which grants them a considerable edge when they enter the workforce.”

Research and instruction — merging theory with application

Conrad’s research encompasses a wide range of security issues, and he thrives on the variety of projects at CITS. One recent investigation, conducted in collaboration with a former MIP student from a genetics background, examined how individual experiences with COVID-19 influenced views on biological threats and security strategies.

“This kind of interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial in today’s landscape, where security challenges are intricate and multifaceted,” Conrad remarked. “We require innovative perspectives to tackle these issues.”

In the classroom, Conrad brings his field experience to life for his students. He teaches courses on counterterrorism and nuclear regulations, the latter influenced by his joint position with the Savannah River National Laboratory.

“My students get to explore the convergence of theory and practice. They comprehend what the research indicates and how it manifests in real-life scenarios,” Conrad stated.

The future of CITS and security education at UGA

Looking forward, Conrad anticipates sustained expansion for CITS, both in research endeavors and educational opportunities for students.

“We’re continually challenging the limits of our knowledge regarding security,” he commented. “As long as we remain inquisitive and receptive to new ideas, CITS will continue to lead in this domain.”

For Conrad, leading CITS at UGA fulfills a lifelong aspiration.

“During my graduate studies, UGA was one of the institutions I aspired to work at someday,” he reflected. “Fifteen years later, I’m living that aspiration. It’s been everything I anticipated and more — and it’s a privilege to be part of a university that’s making such a profound difference in the realm of security.”

Effective August 1, Conrad will take on the position of department head for the Department of International Affairs in SPIA.

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