Research

Military innovations and potential misuses of developments in biology, chemistry or physics can contribute to creating or enhancing instability and insecurity, as do digital warfare and disinformation. This can lead to tension or even conflict and pose a potential threat to peace, human well-being and the maintenance of international norms.

While parts of our research focus on threats arising from new technologies and developments in the natural sciences, we also look at the potential of these new technologies to promote security and strengthen arms control.

Our research is conducted in three interdisciplinary research groups:

The three research groups closely collaborate on the cross-cutting research topics artificial intelligence and verification. Artificial intelligence touches all research areas, from the potential misuse of technological advancements in chemistry and biology, nuclear weapons and nuclear safety, autonomous (weaponized) systems, cybersecurity and cyberattacks to conventional systems and other military capabilities. AI is not only seen as a risk but also as a potential means to support monitoring and verification. Similarly, the question of the technological and political conditions for verification runs through all three research groups and is addressed jointly by them.

Beyond conducting fundamental research, we develop political options for action and recommendations for strengthening arms control. Our key product is the annual CNTR Monitor. The CNTR Fact Sheet series offers short-format explainers on our research topics.