Meet Lauren
Lauren Moss, a recent graduate from the department of political science at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), contributed to projects that investigated Russia and China's views on strategic nuclear deterrence. In one of her projects she focused on how Russian state news media portrayals of global events correlated with instances of Russian aggression, and further, whether a narrative pattern could be established that could help predict future offensive actions. Her contributions led her to experiences as an NSRI Strategic Deterrence Intern as well as a student researcher for the National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education (NCITE) at UNO. She is currently continuing her career in strategic nuclear deterrence and national security at U.S. Strategic Command.
Q&A
What would your peers find most fascinating about your work?
I think my peers would be fascinated to learn just how complex the geopolitical arena is when it comes to the tense issue of nuclear deterrence. Every word and action, no matter how slight, has a potential consequence that could quickly escalate if not tightly controlled. The amount of scrutiny and strategy involved in any nuclear-related act is therefore both warranted and daunting at the same time.
What is it like to tell your friends, family and peers that you've worked on projects for the DOD?
Most people are very curious and unfamiliar with this type of research, so I get a lot of questions! Many want to know my take on geopolitics or how certain current events might affect various hot button issues, so I try to be both reassuring and factual. On the whole, everyone is quite excited for me (and perhaps a bit bemused) when I tell them about this incredible experience.
Do you feel a sense of patriotism?
I do feel patriotic in the sense that I am doing critical work that could help protect the people I love, both here and abroad. I am proud to do this work and hope that my research continues to support national defense and global peace efforts.
Learn more about the NSRI strategic deterrence internship and NCITE.
