Stephen Chow

International Relations researcher with rigorous academic training in Australia and a strong regional research perspective shaped by doctoral study in Singapore. Holds a PhD in International Relations from Nanyang Technological University, alongside prior degrees from leading Australian universities. Specializes in Asia-Pacific geopolitics and major-power competition, with particular expertise in the security architecture of Southeast Asia. Skilled in integrating qualitative and quantitative research methods to conduct independent cross-cultural academic research and policy-oriented analysis.

Education

PhD in International Relations

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

Master of International Relations

Australian National University, Australia

Bachelor of Arts in Politics and International Studies

The University of Melbourne, Australia

Professional Experience

Research Fellow

Center for Global Strategy and Risk Analysis, Vistawave Strategy Consulting

2019 – Present

· Conduct in-depth geopolitical and strategic risk analysis in support of the firm’s core advisory services, with a primary focus on Southeast Asia’s evolving strategic landscape, including U.S.–China strategic competition, the changing role of ASEAN centrality, domestic political stability, and regional flashpoints such as the South China Sea and the Myanmar crisis.

· Produce and contribute to tailored political and market risk assessment reports for corporate clients, providing expert advice on market entry strategies, supply chain diversification, and political risk mitigation across jurisdictions including Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand.

· Prepare regular analytical briefs for senior leadership and provide academic and policy research support for Vistawave’s published Asia-Pacific security reviews and strategic outlook reports.

· Maintain and expand networks across academic, government, and business communities in Singapore, Australia, and Southeast Asia to gather first-hand insights and identify opportunities for research collaboration.

Areas of Expertise

· Asia-Pacific security architecture

· Southeast Asian hedging strategies

· Political risk analysis

· Mixed-methods research

· Regional governance mechanisms

Languages

· Mandarin Chinese: Native

· English: Fluent, professional working proficiency