Thao Liz Nguyen

Thao Liz Nguyen is an Associate Director of the Management, Technology, and Capabilities Program within the Homeland Security Research Division (HSRD) at the RAND Corporation. She holds a dual role as a Professor of Policy Analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy and a senior Physical Scientist specializing in homeland security, acquisition analysis, and requirements development.

Her research focuses on improving complex organizational processes, emerging technologies like nanomaterials and AI, and national security challenges such as border security and disaster response. Nguyen has led projects for the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense branches, and Department of Commerce, addressing topics ranging from CBRN threat mitigation to digital engineering's role in defense procurement.

Her scientific expertise includes nanotechnology applications, having conducted postdoctoral research at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). She earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Maryland.

Nguyen's recent work highlights long-term benefits of digital engineering in defense acquisition, equity considerations in global AI standards, and resilient national positioning systems. Her portfolio reflects a multidisciplinary approach bridging technical innovation, policy analysis, and operational security.