Training the Future Generation of National Security Leaders

Stanford GKC is committed to solving national security challenges at the speed of relevance. To that end the Center is empowering students to create and scale projects that address today's challenges. Whether you're an engineer, a policy maker, a scientist, an entrepreneur, or in another field, if you're driven by curiosity and the urge to innovate, we're looking for you.

We offer tailored programs to train the next generation of leaders in national security innovation:

• Defense Innovation Scholars are competitively selected to develop independent research projects across an array of innovation-focused national security issues. Past examples include developing technology and policy analysis to enhance gray zone tracking in the South China Sea, building a company to improve contested maritime logistics, and creating a joint targeting prioritization framework for the Department of Defense.
• Women in National Security (WiNS) Scholars program aims to increase representation of female students across the modern security landscape. WiNS Scholars are competitively selected to launch research projects, startups, and other initiatives to address critical issues at the intersection of women’s rights and security. WINS Scholars will receive invitations to selective, small-group gatherings with these speakers including formal dinners, roundtables, and publicity opportunities.

Student interest has grown rapidly since the program launch in 2022, with more than 65 participants to date. If you are a Stanford student who wants to learn more about the Defense Innovation Scholars program, please email gordianknotcenter@stanford.edu.