Mohsen Milani

Mohsen Milani is a Full Professor of Politics at the University of South Florida (USF), affiliated with the College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies. He serves as the Founding Executive Director of the Center for Strategic & Diplomatic Studies (CSDS) at USF, established to analyze global security challenges and foster expert dialogues. His academic leadership spans over two decades, including chairing the Department of Government & International Affairs (1998-2012) and editing a Middle East book series for the University of Florida Press (2008-2012).

Education:

• Ph.D. Political Science, University of Southern California (1980s)
• M.A. Political Science, University of Southern California
• B.A. Political Science, California State University, Hayward

Research Interests: Milani specializes in Comparative Politics, Iranian Foreign Policy, and the dynamics of revolutions. His work examines modern Iran’s geopolitical strategies, regional alliances, and the interplay between domestic politics and international relations. His seminal book The Making of Iran’s Islamic Revolution remains a foundational text in Middle Eastern studies, widely adopted in academic curricula globally.

Publications & Media Engagement: With over 60 publications, Milani has contributed to Foreign Affairs, Washington Quarterly, and peer-reviewed journals. His analyses on Iran’s role in Syria, Yemen, and the nuclear deal have shaped global discourse. He is frequently cited in major media outlets, including the New York Times, BBC, and Al Jazeera.

Awards & Fellowships:

• Fellowships at Harvard University (1990), Oxford University (1995), and Ca’ Foscari University (1998)
• Recipient of the USF’s Center for Strategic & Diplomatic Studies’ 6-year research grant (2012–present)

Teaching & Outreach: Milani teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on comparative revolutions, Middle East politics, and American foreign policy in the Persian Gulf. He founded the “Conversation Series on Global Security” at USF, inviting experts to discuss critical issues like nuclear proliferation and regional conflicts.

Current Projects: He is completing a book on Iranian foreign policy and advising governments and think tanks on Middle East dynamics. His research emphasizes Iran’s evolving strategies amid U.S. sanctions and regional rivalries.