Hi, I’m Kirsten!
I’m an early-career researcher and field-builder working on biosecurity, with interests in emerging technology policy and international security. I care deeply about shifting biosecurity governance to safer and more anticipatory systems to prevent accidental and deliberate biological threats, and advance responsible, inclusive governance across both civilian and defense spaces.
I’m especially concerned about the world not being able to handle nor harness emerging technology and I’m passionate about ensuring global biosecurity structures reflect equity, accessibility, and long-term resilience.
Previously, I was a United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs Youth4Biosecurity Fellow and Nuclear Threat Initiative | Bio Next Generation Delegate. I also led Project SHIELD PH, a pioneering initiative that mapped the Philippine biosecurity system.
Currently, I am engaged in contract-based and self-initiated research focused on biosecurity policy, governance, and implementation. I also help run Southeast Asia Biosecurity, a network of early-career researchers working on biosecurity in Southeast Asia. (You can subscribe to our newsletter here.)
I’m an incoming graduate student in the M.A. in Security Studies program at the Georgetown University Walsh School of Foreign Service, where I’ll continue exploring the intersections of biosecurity, defense policy, and emerging technology.
Here’s me singing a song called “My Days” that’s inspiring me this new year :)