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Dr Derek Bolton

Derek Bolton
  • Director of Undergraduate Studies
  • Convenor PO2AMG-American Politics

Areas of interest

My research sits within the broad themes of International Relations Theory and Security Studies and explores questions around ontological security, collective identity, nationalism, and shared emotions/affect within the context of conflict and security. Of particular interest is the role of the ‘sacred’ in society and the implications this has for international politics. My research has featured in prominent journals including International Organization, Security Studies, Political Psychology, International Theory, and International Studies Review.

Postgraduate supervision

I am happy to hear from prospective students working on the areas listed above.

Background

I joined the department as a Lecturer (Assistant Professor) in International Relations in September 2024. Prior to this I was a Lecturer (Assistant Professor) in Defence Studies at King’s College London, where I worked closely with senior military officers at the Defence Academy, and a Teaching Lecturer in International Security at the University of Bath, where I also completed my PhD. Before returning to academia, I worked for several organizations in Washington D.C. on issues around U.S. foreign policy. 

Academic qualifications

  • PhD in International Relations, University of Bath
  • MSc International Relations, University of Amsterdam
  • BA Joint Hons (History and Politics), University College Cork

Awards and honours

My PhD was fully funded by the ‘Bath 50th Anniversary Studentship’

Professional bodies/affiliations

Adjunct Fellow at the American Security Project

Publications

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