Hoping to learn more about the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs?
By Nicholas Stanek, Events and Engagement Coordinator for the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs
The research centers at Harvard Kennedy School are a great resource for students to get involved with real-world policy issues. The Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs is focused on research, ideas, and leadership for a more secure, peaceful world.
Events and Engagement Coordinator Nicholas Stanek discusses the Belfer Center and the various ways incoming students can engage with its initiatives and opportunities.
What work does the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs focus on?
The Belfer Center focuses on the intersection of science, technology, and international affairs. Broadly, the work centers on national security, geopolitics, emerging technologies, climate and energy policy, nuclear policy, cyber and AI governance, and global leadership. What makes Belfer distinctive is that it doesn’t just produce academic research. It shapes real-world policy. Faculty and fellows are often publishing in major outlets, testifying before Congress, or engaging directly with practitioners. There’s a strong emphasis on translating research into policy impact.
What resources does the Belfer Center provide to students?
Students have access to several key resources:
- Research assistant opportunities with faculty and fellows
- Student fellowships and policy research programs
- Events, seminars, and private roundtables with senior leaders in government, industry, and academia
- Career connections and networking opportunities across national security, technology, energy, and global affairs
- Publication platforms and opportunities to contribute to research projects
One of the most valuable resources is proximity. Students can directly engage with people who are actively shaping policy debates in Washington and internationally.
“For students interested in science, technology, security, or global leadership, the Belfer Center is a place where you can move from classroom theory to real policy conversations very quickly.”
Nicholas Stanek, Events and Engagement Coordinator
How can students get involved with the Belfer Center at HKS?
There are a few main pathways:
- Apply for research assistant positions with specific programs
- Participate in Belfer-affiliated student programs and fellowships
- Attend public events and smaller policy roundtables
- Engage directly with faculty during office hours or through coursework
- Reach out to program teams about volunteer or part-time opportunities
For students interested in science, technology, security, or global leadership, the Belfer Center is a place where you can move from classroom theory to real policy conversations very quickly.
What is your role with the Center?
I serve as the Events and Engagement Coordinator on the Operations team. My role sits at the intersection of programming, logistics, and institutional strategy. I help manage and execute events ranging from small, private convenings to large public forums with senior policymakers and global leaders. That includes coordinating speakers, working across research programs, managing logistics, and ensuring the experience reflects the Center’s standards. Beyond events, I also focus on systems and process improvement within the Center, building tools and documentation that make onboarding, communication, and internal coordination more efficient.
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