Jeffrey Ordaniel

Jeffrey Ordaniel is an Assistant Professor at Tokyo International University, specializing in international security studies. His research focuses on maritime security dynamics in Asia, US strategic policies in the Indo-Pacific, and regional relations in Southeast Asia.

• Ph.D. from the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS, 2017)
• M.A. from KDI School of Public Policy and Management (2013)
• B.A. from La Salle University/Kyung Hee University (2011)

As a leading expert on Indo-Pacific security, Ordaniel explores the interplay between legal frameworks and deterrence strategies in maritime disputes. His work examines how smaller states navigate great power competition, particularly China's growing influence in the South China Sea.

His research portfolio includes grants from:

• Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (2020-2022)
• US Department of State (2021)
• DTRA-US Department of Defense (2020-2021)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (2019)
• Panasonic Kokosuke Matsushita Memorial Research Grant (2015)

In addition to his academic appointment, Ordaniel serves as Director of Maritime Programs (Non-resident) at the Pacific Forum since 2020, building on previous research fellowships at the Pacific Forum (2018-2019) and Center for Strategic and International Studies (2016-2018).