Prof. Dr. Adam Saud

PhD Theme/Topic: Strategic Realignments in Asia

Supervisor:1. Prof. Dr. Adam Saud
Contact #: 03345027046
Email: asaud.buic@bahria.edu.pk
Campus/School/Dept: BUIC/H&SS/PhD
RAC Approved Supervisor for Research Areas: South Asia, Peace and Conflict Study, Security and Foreign Policy
Supervisory Record:
PhD Produced: 3
PhD Enrolled: 5
MS/MPhil Produced: 20
MS/MPhil Enrolled: 03

Supervisor: 2. Dr. Sadia Khanum, Snr. Assistant Professor
Contact #: 03115607237
Email: sadia.buic@bahria.edu.pk
Campus/School/Dept: BUIC/H&SS/PhD
RAC Approved Supervisor for Research Areas: South Asia, Peace and Conflict Study, Security and Foreign Policy
Supervisory Record: 
PhD Produced: 0
PhD Enrolled: 1
MS/MPhil Produced: 07
MS/MPhil Enrolled: 10

Supervisor: 3. Dr Saira Nawaz Abbasi, Associate Professor 
Contact #: 03335395830
Email: sairanawaz.buic@bahria.edu.pk
CaMpus/School/Dept: BUIC/H&SS/PhD
RAC Approved Supervisor for Research Areas: Russia, World Order, Security and Foreign Policy
Supervisory Record:
PhD Produced: 0   
PhD Enrolled: 1
MS/MPhil Produced: 12
MS/MPhil Enrolled: 08

Topic Brief Description:

Strategic Realignments in Asia refer to the evolving shifts in political, economic, and security partnerships across the Asian continent in response to changing power dynamics. Driven largely by the rise of China, the recalibration of U.S. engagement, and regional security concerns, these realignments are reshaping alliances, multilateral frameworks, and foreign policy priorities of Asian states. The phenomenon has significant implications for regional stability, economic integration, and the broader international order.

Research Objectives/Deliverables:

• To examine the key drivers behind strategic realignments in Asia, including shifts in power, security concerns, and economic interdependence.
• To analyze the impact of major powers—particularly China, the United States, and regional actors—on evolving alliance structures.
• To assess the implications of these realignments for regional stability, conflict management, and cooperation.
• To evaluate the role of multilateral institutions and emerging security frameworks in shaping Asia’s strategic landscape.

Research Questions: 

• What political, economic, and security factors are driving strategic realignments in Asia?
• How are major powers, particularly China and the United States, influencing alliance patterns and partnerships in the region?
• In what ways are middle and smaller Asian states responding to shifting regional power dynamics?
• How do emerging multilateral and minilateral frameworks affect regional security and cooperation?
• What are the implications of Asia’s strategic realignments for regional stability and the global balance of power?

Candidate’s Eligibility Profile:

1. The applicant must have an MS/MPhil/Equivalent degree in International Relations with CGPA > 3.0.
2. Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential. We value independence and responsibility while promoting teamwork and collaboration among colleagues.