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A Gordian Knot is an intractable problem solved through direct, unexpected approaches. We aim to solve these problems in national security innovation.

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The Stanford Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation brings together Stanford's cutting-edge resources, Silicon Valley's dynamic innovation ecosystem, and a network of national security experts—all committed to mentoring and fostering the next generation of leaders.

We create impact through education, training, and policy outreach.

Experiential Learning on Real-World Problems

Empowering Students’ Personal Development

National Security Innovation Scholars Application

Our National Security Innovation Scholars program aims to train the next generation of leaders in national security innovation. Whether you're a student engineer, policy maker, scientist, entrepreneur, or in another field, if you're driven by curiosity and the urge to create new approaches for national security, we're looking for you.

Applications for our Fall Cohort are now open. Please follow the link for more details about the program. 

 Our Team

Dr. Joe Felter
Center Director & Founding Faculty

Joe Felter

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Dr. Riitta Katila
Co-Principal Investigator

Riitta Katila

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The Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation is sponsored by the Office of Naval Research