David Shambaugh

David Shambaugh is the Gaston Sigur Professor of Asian Studies, Political Science, and International Affairs at George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs, where he also directs the China Policy Program. A leading expert on modern China, his work focuses on Chinese domestic politics, foreign policy, and Asia’s international relations.

• Education: B.A. (1977) and M.A. (1980) from GWU and Johns Hopkins, respectively; Ph.D. (1989) from the University of Michigan.

His research explores China’s rise, leadership dynamics, and global engagements. Notable books include China & the World (2020) and Tangled Titans (2012). His articles address US-China rivalry, Southeast Asia’s role, and strategic competition. He has held distinguished fellowships at Woodrow Wilson and Hoover Institutions.

• Awards: Distinguished Fellowships at Woodrow Wilson and Hoover Institutions, Senior Fulbright Scholar.

Grants from Ford Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, and others support his research. He advises governments, institutions, and corporations on China policy.

Active in academia, he teaches courses on China’s politics and foreign policy, and leads interdisciplinary initiatives at the Elliott School.