What Center for Security and Emerging Technology does
The Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) is a policy research organization within Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service. It provides decision-makers with data-driven analysis on the security implications of emerging technologies, with current focus areas including artificial intelligence (AI), advanced computing, and biotechnology. CSET distinguishes itself by combining policy analysis with data science capabilities and large-scale data holdings, and by translating findings into practical outputs for policymakers—through reports, policy briefs, testimony, public data visualizations and trackers, and an internal translation service for significant foreign-language materials that support its research agenda. CSET also runs several initiatives designed to extend its research infrastructure beyond internal use, including the Emerging Technology Observatory, which develops data products for external visibility into emerging technology trends, and the Foundational Research Grants program, which supports longer-horizon technical work relevant to the national security implications of AI. The center is currently led by Executive Director Helen Toner (with prior interim leadership announced in 2025), and it maintains research and public-facing programs spanning AI governance, export controls, cyber (CyberAI), biotech risk, workforce/talent, and related security-policy questions.