Akil Awan

Akil Awan is a Senior Lecturer in Modern History, Political Violence, and Terrorism at the Department of History, Royal Holloway, University of London. He co-directs the Conflict, Violence and Terrorism Research Centre (CVTRC) and founded the Political Science Association’s Specialist Group on Political Violence & Terrorism.

• Specialized in terrorism, radicalisation, and political violence
• Interdisciplinary approach combining history, political science, anthropology, and sociology
• Active in public engagement and policy advisory roles

His research explores terrorism from historical and interdisciplinary perspectives, linking topics like 19th-century anarchists, anti-colonial movements, and modern jihadism. He investigates how popular culture, especially film and video games, represents conflict and history.

Recent research trends focus on media’s role in radicalisation, AI warfare, and genocide activism among Gen Z, reflecting contemporary security challenges through historical frameworks.

Awarded three Royal Holloway Excellence in Teaching Prizes (2013, 2015, 2019), Awan’s innovative teaching integrates student-driven research and creative assessment methods like the 'Unessay.'

• Advisory roles with UN, NATO, UK Parliament, US Departments of State and Defense
• Contributor to New Statesman, The Independent, and Conversation