David Yakubu
My research interest spans
About
I’m a researcher and aspiring policy analyst with a strong focus on governance, national security, and international relations. I hold an M.A. in Political Science from Villanova University, where I’ve explored big-picture questions about global conflict, foreign policy, and power dynamics—particularly how international institutions respond to crises and how shifting alliances are reshaping global politics. My research has ranged from analyzing the limitations of veto power in the United Nations Security Council to examining the resurgence of Russian influence in West Africa and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. I’m especially interested in how both state and non-state actors use diplomatic, economic, and informational tools to gain strategic advantage, particularly across Africa and the Middle East. Through my role as a Graduate Research Assistant, I’ve developed strong experience in qualitative and quantitative research, policy analysis, and data storytelling. I also apply Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) methods—such as geolocation, public records research, and social media monitoring—to track geopolitical developments, assess foreign policy risks, and generate timely, actionable insights. Outside of research, I’ve led cross-cultural initiatives that bring people together. As President of the African and Caribbean Graduate Student Association and International Student Officer in Villanova’s Graduate Student Senate, I’ve worked to foster inclusion, build community, and advocate for global perspectives in academic and leadership spaces. I’m currently seeking opportunities in research, policy development, or think tank environments where I can combine political insight, OSINT capability, and lived experience to help make sense of complex global challenges and support informed, strategic action.
Basic Bio
David Yakubu is a graduate student pursuing a Master's degree in Political Science & Governance with a specialization in Foreign Policy and National Security at Villanova University. Originally from Nigeria, David has a deep interest in geopolitics, international security, and conflict risk analysis, particularly concerning U.S. foreign policy in Africa and the Middle East. He has been actively involved in research and advocacy focused on governance, security, and strategic policymaking, and is committed to bridging theory and practice by engaging with think tanks, policymakers, and academic institutions. David applies a multidisciplinary approach that includes political analysis, data-driven research, and Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) techniques to assess global risks and inform decision-making. He is currently building expertise through academic work, public engagement, and leadership roles, with the goal of contributing to smarter, more effective policy responses to complex global challenges.
Skills
Proficiencies in research, policy analysis, communication, and technical tools
Resume
Aspiring Policy Analyst specializing in national security and international relations, with extensive research and analytical skills. Passionate about fostering public-private collaboration to address global security challenges and promote sustainable solutions.
Sumary
David Yakubu
Graduate student and experienced researcher dedicated to international conflict resolution and policy analysis. Proven ability to synthesize complex information into actionable insights.
- Philadelphia, PA 19104
- +123 456 7890
- daveyaks93@gmail.com
Education
M.A. Political Science And Governance
Jan, 2024 - Dec, 2025
Villanova University, Villanova, PA
Focus: International Relations, Conflict Resolution, Policy Analysis & Geopolitics.
BSc Criminology and Security Studies
2015 - 2019
University of Jos, Plateau, Nigeria
Honors Degree, Certificate of Leadership. Emphasized holistic approaches to security and criminological theory.
Professional Experience
Graduate Research Assistant
2024 - Present
Villanova University, Office of Graduate Research and Education, PA
- Conduct in-depth research and policy analysis, producing reports informing strategic decisions for graduate programs.
- Coordinate academic workshops and events such as the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, improving students' public speaking and research presentation skills.
- Partner with faculty to support diversity initiatives, aligning with Villanova's Augustinian values.
- Enhanced database management systems, boosting project tracking efficiency by 20%.
Internal Control Assistant
2022 - 2024
Manna Mountains Limited, Abuja, Nigeria
- Executed compliance audits, policy enforcement, and regulatory monitoring.
- Prepared detailed risk assessment reports, informing senior management's strategic decisions.
- Led conflict resolution initiatives to ensure smooth organizational operations.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency.
Special Assistant (Intelligence)
2021 - 2022
Nigerian Security And Civil defense Corps
- Completed Nigeria’s mandatory paramilitary National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program with assignment under the Chief Administrative Officer.
- Managed confidential intelligence documents and administrative correspondences to support internal operations and inter-agency coordination.
- Assisted with daily briefings, file handling, and secure record-keeping within the intelligence and administrative unit.
- Contributed to operational planning and internal communication procedures within the Corps’ Abuja headquarters.
Research Portfolio
Selected academic research projects exploring topics in international security, conflict resolution, and public policy. Click a title below to read the full article.
Veto Power & International Conflict
How UN Security Council vetoes shape U.S. crisis responses.
New Alliances in the Sahel
Russia’s influence in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Ebola Response & Surveillance
Policy lessons and proposals for unified disease surveillance.
Analysis of "What I believe as a Historian of Genocide"
Exploring the nuances of Omer Bartov's Op-Ed on on the usage of the word Genocide
Campaign Fundraising and Electoral Success in U.S. House Elections (2008–2022)
In this paper, I examine campaign finance and electoral outcomes, historical context, laws, reforms, and empirical findings on the influence of money in elections looking at data from the 2008, 2018, 2020 and 2022 House election cycles.
Examining the Gendered Dimensions of Genocide
The study of genocide has often centered on political, ethnic, and ideological drivers, overlooking how gender shapes and informs every dimension of mass violence.
Contact
Feel free to reach out for collaborations, research inquiries, or policy-related opportunities. I'm always open to meaningful conversations and professional connections.
Address
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Call Me
+123 456 7890
Email Us
daveyaks93@gmail.com