Rachel George

Dr. Rachel George is a new Lecturer for the International Relations Program! She spoke with us about her areas of interest, her favorite courses to teach, and what she likes to do outside of the classroom!

Tell us a little about yourself.

I received my PhD in International Relations from the London School of Economics, and previously served as a Lecturing Fellow at Duke University in the Center for International Development and as Director for Education Content with the Council on Foreign Relations. Before that, I also worked as a researcher supporting a number of governments, UN agencies and international organizations.

What are your areas of interest of study?

My research focuses on foreign policy, Middle East politics, women's rights, international law, and the connections between humanitarian action, development, and international security. My doctoral research explored the implementation of international human rights law in the Gulf Cooperation Council states. I have since conducted research on a range of topics including questions of aid effectiveness, international institutions, inclusive governance, technology, and human rights. Currently, I am working on a research project that explores the impacts of mergers of international development and foreign policy bureaucracies.

What are some of your favorite courses to teach?

I enjoy teaching research methods and advising independent research projects. I find it especially rewarding to work with students to tackle their own research questions and to design independent projects. I am very much looking forward to teaching Stanford's international relations research paper capstone course. In the past, I have also enjoyed teaching courses in international relations theory, development, and global governance.

What do you like to do outside of Stanford?

My family is international, so I love to travel! When possible, I enjoy spending time in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Since moving from the East Coast, I am also enjoying exploring the Stanford area with my husband, our energetic dog and our young daughter.