Dr. Shairbek Dzhuraev returns to the Academy after previously serving in the same role from 2012 to 2015. He holds a PhD in International Relations from the University of St. Andrews and recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Technical University of Dortmund, funded by the Volkswagen Foundation. With over 15 years of experience in research, teaching, and academic leadership, Dr. Dzhuraev is the founder of Crossroads Central Asia research institute and is widely recognized for his expertise in Central Asian politics and international affairs. He has authored more than 50 publications, including peer-reviewed articles and policy papers, and has held academic leadership and teaching roles, including as Dean of Academic Development at the American University of Central Asia.