Benjamin Jensen

Benjamin Jensen is an Adjunct Hurst Professorial Lecturer at American University's School of International Service and a professor of strategic studies at the Marine Corps University School of Advanced Warfighting. He also serves as Director of the Futures Lab and Senior Fellow in the Defense and Security Department at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), where he leads research on AI, data science, and wargaming in modern conflict. His academic background includes a PhD and MA from American University, an MS from the National Intelligence University, and a BA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Dr. Jensen’s research centers on the evolving character of political violence, military innovation, and the integration of artificial intelligence into warfare. His work spans strategic studies, cyber strategy, wargaming, defense technology, and future operational art. He has led initiatives with DARPA, NATO, the U.S. Army, and other agencies to develop scenario-driven exercises and wargames. His focus includes AI benchmarking, drone warfare, and adapting military doctrine for the digital age.

His recent publications, from 2022 to 2025, demonstrate a strong trend toward analyzing AI in statecraft, drone saturation strategies in Ukraine, and the transformation of military operations through technology. Themes include battlefield adaptation, deterrence through rare earths, and reimagining reserve forces as drone brigades. His work combines academic rigor with policy relevance, often bridging theoretical concepts with real-world military applications.

Scientific awards include:

• American University School of International Service Award for Outstanding Teaching by a PhD Candidate (2008)
• Smith Richardson Foundation World Politics and Statecraft Fellowship (2008)

Dr. Jensen has advised and collaborated with numerous government agencies and foundations, including the Office of Naval Research, OSD Minerva Initiative, Hewlett Foundation, and the U.S. Cyberspace Solarium Commission, where he served as senior research director. He has also supported ECOWAS in developing human security frameworks. His leadership in research grants and policy projects underscores his influence in national and international security discourse.

He leads the Futures Lab at CSIS, which pioneers AI applications in wargames and scenario exercises, covering topics from major war and national mobilization to economic security and energy politics. His work fosters interdisciplinary teams focused on defense innovation and future conflict modeling.