Javier is a PhD researcher in International Relations at Lancaster University’s Politics, Philosophy and Religion Department.
His PhD project unfolds at the junction between international relations, Middle East studies and spatial theory, drawing on analytically eclectic approaches. More specifically, his thesis revolves around how Saudi Arabia’s securitisation processes inform regional spatial configurations and its own geopolitical position in the regional system.
His research interests include the international relations of the Middle East -with particular focus on Saudi Arabia and the Gulf-, foreign policy, security and defence, geopolitics (classical and critical approaches), conflict studies, and EU-MENA relations.
He has previously held research assistantships at the Elcano Royal Institute in Madrid (Spain) and the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia). He holds a bachelor’s in International Relations and a master’s in Geopolitics and Strategic Studies.