The German Marshall Fund of the United States has launched a new leadership initiative called NEXUS (Next Generation Security Exchange), designed to prepare the next generation of security experts and policymakers working on nuclear issues and international cooperation.

Funded by The Japan Foundation, NEXUS brings together emerging scholars from the United States, Japan, and Europe for an intensive learning experience focused on nuclear security, strategic affairs, and international cooperation.

The programme is now accepting applications from outstanding Master’s and PhD students who want to deepen their understanding of nuclear policy while building professional networks across regions.

Application Deadline: 30 June 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET

About the NEXUS Programme

NEXUS: Next Generation Security Exchange is a new leadership programme created to develop future leaders who can contribute to stronger:

• US-Japan bilateral relations.
• US-Japan-Europe trilateral cooperation.
• Global nuclear security discussions.
• International policy development.

The initiative focuses on preparing participants to become informed researchers, analysts, and policymakers who understand the complex security challenges shaping the world today.

The programme’s goal is to build a network of emerging experts who can contribute to future conversations on nuclear strategy, international security, and cooperation among key global partners.

Programme Objectives

NEXUS aims to:

• Train future security professionals.
• Strengthen cooperation between the United States, Japan, and Europe.
• Develop deeper understanding of nuclear security challenges.
• Encourage cross-regional collaboration among young researchers.
• Support participants in becoming future policy leaders.

The programme recognizes the importance of developing a new generation of experts capable of addressing complex global security issues through research, dialogue, and cooperation.

Who Will Be Selected?

For its inaugural year, NEXUS will select:

10 Master’s and PhD students

from:

• Japan.
• Europe.
• The United States.

Selected participants will form a diverse international cohort focused on exploring nuclear security issues and strengthening cooperation between regions.

Key Topics Covered During the Programme

Participants will explore major areas of nuclear policy and international security, including:

Nuclear Deterrence Strategy

Students will examine the role of nuclear deterrence in international relations and how strategic decisions influence global security.

Topics may include:

• Security guarantees.
• Military strategy.
• Regional security dynamics.
• Strategic stability.

International Nuclear History

Participants will study historical developments that have shaped today’s nuclear landscape.

This includes understanding:

• Major nuclear events.
• Evolution of nuclear policies.
• Lessons from past international security challenges.

Nuclear Nonproliferation

The programme will explore efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and strengthen international security frameworks.

Participants will examine:

• Nonproliferation agreements.
• Global security mechanisms.
• Challenges facing nuclear governance.

Alliance Politics

Students will analyze how partnerships between countries influence security decision-making.

Special focus will be placed on:

• US-Japan relations.
• US-Japan-Europe cooperation.
• Regional security partnerships.

Programme Format

The NEXUS programme combines online learning with an in-person immersive experience.

The programme includes:

Interactive Webinars

Participants will take part in a series of virtual sessions designed to build knowledge, encourage discussion, and connect students with experts.

In-Person Training in Washington, DC

The virtual sessions will lead to an intensive in-person training programme in:

Washington, DC

Date:

8–13 November 2026

The in-person programme will provide opportunities for:

• Direct engagement with experts.
• Professional networking.
• Policy discussions.
• Practical learning experiences.

Participant Benefits

Selected participants will receive support to participate in the programme.

Benefits include:

• Round-trip airfare to Washington, DC.
• Accommodation.
• Meals during the programme.
• Access to expert-led training.
• Opportunity to build international professional networks.
• Exposure to security policy discussions.
• Opportunity to publish a short policy-relevant article.

The programme provides participants with both academic knowledge and practical experience relevant to future careers in security and policymaking.

Publication Opportunity

Participants will have the opportunity to develop and publish a short policy-focused article.

This allows participants to:

• Share their ideas with broader audiences.
• Develop policy communication skills.
• Strengthen their professional profiles.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. Resume

Requirements:

• Maximum length: 2 pages.

The resume should highlight:

• Academic background.
• Research experience.
• Relevant professional activities.
• Security or policy interests.

2. Statement of Interest

Applicants must provide a short statement explaining:

• Why they want to participate in NEXUS.
• How they plan to apply knowledge gained from the programme.
• How nuclear policy and trilateral cooperation connect with their future professional goals.

The statement should also confirm:

• Ability to travel to Washington, DC from 8–13 November 2026.
• Commitment to attending all virtual sessions.

For applicants based in Europe and Japan:

• They should indicate whether they have previously visited Washington, DC.

Statement length:

Maximum 250 words

Application Timeline

Important dates:

• Application deadline: 30 June 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET
• Virtual sessions: Before the in-person training
• Washington, DC training: 8–13 November 2026

Applicants should prepare their materials carefully and submit before the deadline.

How to Apply

Interested students should apply through the German Marshall Fund career application platform.

Click here for more and to apply

Applicants should submit their resume and statement of interest through the application process.

References are not required. Applicants may enter “N/A” in reference sections where applicable.

Programme Experts

The programme is supported by experts from the German Marshall Fund’s Indo-Pacific team, including:

• Sayuri Romei
• Colleen Scribner
• Jennifer Nguyen

Why This Opportunity Matters

NEXUS represents an important opportunity for emerging researchers who want to contribute to conversations about nuclear security and international cooperation.

By bringing together students from the United States, Japan, and Europe, the programme creates a platform for developing future leaders who can address global challenges through collaboration, research, and informed policy-making.

Conclusion

The NEXUS: Next Generation Security Exchange programme offers MA and PhD students a unique opportunity to expand their expertise in nuclear security, connect with international peers, and engage with leading experts in global affairs.

Students interested in security studies, international relations, and nuclear policy are encouraged to apply before the 30 June 2026 deadline.

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