It's been an eventful few months in our department, with impressive scholarly achievements, inspiring guest speakers, and valuable diplomatic engagement for our students.
Dr Jim Johnson's Latest Accomplishments
We're thrilled to share that Dr James (Jim) Johnson has had his article "Can AI behave ethically during military crises? Preserving human moral agency" accepted for publication in Chatham House's prestigious journal International Affairs. This important work explores the critical question of preserving human moral agency as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into military decision-making.
Jim has also signed a contract with Oxford University Press for the third volume in the Oxford AI and Future Warfare series, building on the success of the previous instalments. Additionally, he recently attended a workshop on AI and nuclear security at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), contributing to vital international discussions on emerging security challenges.
Ian Houston Returns to Inspire Our Students
On 1 December 2025, we'll welcome back Ian Houston, International Advocate, author and columnist, for another engaging session with our MSc Strategic Studies - Diplomacy students. Speaking from Washington, DC, Ian will draw on his extensive experience, including his work in the US Congress, to provide invaluable insights into careers in international relations, trade and foreign affairs.
Ian's practical approach is what makes these sessions so valuable - he'll share concrete advice on pursuing professional goals through internships, skills development and strategic networking. Our students always find his sessions both inspiring and genuinely useful as they plan their own career paths.
A Visit from Greece's Consul General
On Monday, 27 October, we had the honour of hosting Mr Alexandros Ioannidis, Consul General of Greece in Manchester. Mr Ioannidis spoke candidly with our MSc in Strategic Studies and Diplomacy students about what a career in diplomacy actually involves - the challenges, the rewards, and the day-to-day realities of representing your country abroad.
The session evolved into a lively discussion on current global political affairs, with students asking thoughtful questions and engaging in the kind of substantive dialogue that makes these encounters so enriching. We're already looking forward to welcoming Mr Ioannidis back in the future.
