Edward Geist

Edward Geist is a Policy Researcher at the RAND Corporation and a Professor of Policy Analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy. His research focuses on Russia's defense policy, civil defense, artificial intelligence, nuclear weapons, and the impact of emerging technologies on nuclear strategy. He holds a Ph.D. in history from the University of North Carolina. Previously, he served as a MacArthur Nuclear Security Fellow at Stanford and a Stanton Nuclear Security Fellow at RAND. His notable works include Armageddon Insurance: Civil Defense in the United States and Soviet Union, 1945–1991 (2019) and Deterrence under Uncertainty: Artificial Intelligence and Nuclear Warfare (2023).

His expertise spans nuclear deterrence, AI's role in military strategy, and U.S.-China strategic competition. He frequently analyzes how emerging technologies like AI reshape military capabilities and global security dynamics. Geist’s research emphasizes the risks of technological arms races and their potential to escalate conflicts, advocating for policy frameworks to mitigate these risks.

• Education: Ph.D. in History, University of North Carolina
• Awards: MacArthur Nuclear Security Fellowship, Stanton Nuclear Security Fellowship
• Key Themes: Nuclear strategy, AI governance, Russia-China-U.S. strategic dynamics

Geist’s recent work explores scenarios of prolonged conflict with China, AI limitations in warfare, and the implications of advanced computing for nuclear stability. His insights inform policymakers on balancing technological advancement with strategic stability.