David Carter

David Carter is a Professor of Political Science at Washington University in St. Louis, located in the Department of Political Science. His research focuses on international relations, specifically interstate conflict and substate political violence. He holds a PhD from the University of Rochester and previously served as an Assistant Professor at Princeton University (2011-2017).

Key research interests include the historical legacies of boundary institutions, patterns of conflict and cooperation among states, and secessionist groups' targeting strategies. His work has been published in top journals such as the American Political Science Review and International Organization.

Carter’s current project analyzes secessionist groups’ territorial claims using digital maps to understand their tactical choices between attacking government forces or civilian targets. He maintains an office at Seigle Hall 286 and is affiliated with Washington University’s broader academic community, including transdisciplinary initiatives like the Incubator for Transdisciplinary Futures.