Steve S. Sin, Ph.D.

Dr. Steve Sin is an associate research scientist and director of the Unconventional & Asymmetric Threats Division of START at the University of Maryland. His primary areas of expertise include adversary behavior modeling and multi-domain operations, where he has made significant contributions to understanding and predicting adversarial decision-making in complex operational environments. Dr. Sin’s research also encompasses countering weapons of mass destruction, emerging technologies and threats, insider risk management and mitigation, and Northeast Asia regional security. Additionally, Dr. Sin has conducted extensive studies on interstate crisis initiation and deterrence, providing critical insights into the dynamics of international conflict.

In his role at START, Dr. Sin develops, leads, and manages large interdisciplinary research projects that address a broad spectrum of national and homeland security challenges. These projects have been supported by entities such as the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, National Security Agency, Department of Defense Basic Research Office, Department of Homeland Security, and the Organization of American States, among others.

Prior to his appointment at START, Dr. Sin served as a Senior Research Associate at the National Center for Security & Preparedness, a strategic partner of the New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services. His earlier career includes distinguished service as a U.S. Army Officer. Dr. Sin holds a Ph.D. in Political Science with specializations in international relations and comparative politics from the University at Albany, State University of New York, and is fluent in Korean, Japanese, and Mandarin Chinese.