Charles Luftig, Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Policy and Capabilities, joined the Security Clearance Careers Podcast to discuss the National Security Data and Policy Institute (NSDPI). He shared insights on the origins of the institute, why UVA was a natural match for this partnership, and the interdisciplinary nature of the NSDPI’s work.
The National Security Data and Policy Institute (NSDPI) is a university-level institute launched by the University of Virginia (UVA) in August 2024—UVA’s sixth such institution—backed by a $20 million contract. It unites expertise from academia, government, and industry to tackle national security challenges using data science, artificial intelligence, research computing, and public policy frameworks.
Core Objectives and Areas of Focus
The National Security Data and Policy Institute is UVA’s strategic hub for integrating high-end data analytics and policy expertise to address ever-evolving national security challenges—empowering the nation with systems, talent, and insight to face continuous technological and geopolitical change.
1. Cutting-Edge Research
NSDPI develops advanced tools and AI-powered systems to sift through massive datasets, enabling faster, more insightful analysis to help identify emerging security threats.
2. Collaborative Networks
The institute fosters partnerships across universities, government agencies, and the private sector to accelerate the creation and adoption of emerging technologies relevant to national security.
3. Policy Engagement
By translating complex technological developments into actionable guidance, NSDPI helps policymakers navigate the legal, ethical, and strategic dimensions of emerging threats.
4. Workforce Development
The institute trains students—undergraduate, graduate, and postdocs—for careers in national security and intelligence, nurturing the next generation of experts.
