The School of Media and Public Affairs (SMPA) is a trailblazer in the study of political communication, journalism and media. As the only school of its kind in the capital of politics and media, SMPA excels at bringing Washington into the classroom. The SMPA community benefits from access to an extensive network, events with political and media leaders and a prime location to explore the interplay of media and politics.
The Project for Media and National Security Director (PMNSD) plays a vital role in advancing public understanding of national security, defense, and cyber issues confronting the United States and the world. Through regular briefings, salons, and high-level interactions between journalists and national security decision-makers, PMNSD provides a unique space, at one of the leading academic institutions in the country, for thoughtful and informative exchanges of information.
The position would organize and host moderated conversations among journalists who cover national security, cybersecurity and related issues with senior national security officials, military officers, policy-makers and experts; oversee logistics, budget, website and small staff that support PMNS activities; work with SMPA leadership and GW development team to raise necessary funding. Coordinate with relevant GW units including the Institute for Public Diplomacy and Global Communications (IPDGC), the Institute for Data, Democracy and Politics (IDDP), and SMPA initiatives as appropriate. Provide opportunities for the wider GW community to benefit from PMNS activities. The position creates an annual strategic plan and budget for the Project and may have the opportunity to teach one course per year for undergraduate and/or graduate students.
The initial appointment for this full-time position will be for one year beginning as soon as July 1, 2026, and will be renewable.