Thomas Rid

Thomas Rid is a Professor of Strategic Studies at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and founding director of the Alperovitch Institute for Cybersecurity Studies. His expertise spans cybersecurity, disinformation, and the history of cybernetics.

• Former professor at King’s College London (2011-2016)
• PhD from Humboldt University in Berlin

Rid’s research focuses on the intersection of technology, security, and political strategy, with a particular emphasis on cyber warfare, information operations, and the ideological roots of technological conflict.

His publications include Active Measures (2020) on disinformation history, Rise of the Machines (2016) on cybernetics, and the seminal Cyber War Will Not Take Place (2013) challenging conventional cyberwar narratives. Articles span cybersecurity, historical analysis, and strategic theory.

Scientific Awards

• Kluge Fellow at the Library of Congress (2022)

Rid has advised major institutions on cybersecurity policy and testified before the U.S. Senate, German Bundestag, and UK Parliament. He collaborates with international think tanks and cybersecurity teams, including his leadership role at the Alperovitch Institute.