Zhiqin Gao is a Ph.D. candidate in Political Science, specializing in International Relations and Political Theory. His research interests include international security, political psychology, and diplomatic history, with a special focus on Asia and U.S.-China relations. His current research projects include rising power competition, middle power diplomacy, and theorizing contingency in world politics. Prior to joining OSU, Zhiqin received a BA in History, International Studies, and Political Science (Honors) from the University of Washington, Seattle. He was also a Global Leaders Fellow at the National Bureau of Asian Research and an intern at Asia Policy Point.