Saadia M. Pekkanen

Saadia M. Pekkanen is the Job and Gertrud Tamaki Endowed Professor of International Studies at the University of Washington’s Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies. She also holds adjunct professorships in Political Science and Law. As a leading scholar in space policy, international law, and East Asian studies, she directs the Space Law, Data, and Policy Program (SPACE LDP) at the Law School and the Program on Strategy, Policy, and Diplomacy Research (SPDR) at the Jackson School. Her research bridges international relations and legal frameworks, focusing on space security, Japan’s foreign policy, and global governance.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Political Science, Harvard University (1996)
• Masters in International Affairs, Columbia University (1988)
• Master of Studies in Law, Yale Law School (2004)

Research Interests: Prof. Pekkanen examines the intersection of commercial, legal, and security policies in outer space, emphasizing Japan and Asia. Her work analyzes industrial strategy, alliances, and governance in the world order. She contributes to debates on space law, technological diplomacy, and grand strategy.

Awards and Memberships: Lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), member of the International Institute of Space Law (IISL), and recipient of the endowed professorship at UW.

Leadership and Grants: Founded SPACE LDP, SPDR, and the Space Policy and Research Center (SPARC). Her work connects academic research with policy through initiatives addressing space security and strategic diplomacy.

Labs/Teams: Directs the SPACE LDP, SPDR, and SPARC, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration on space policy, diplomacy, and security strategies.