KCL Project Alpha

Project Alpha takes an academically rigorous, policy-orientated approach to studying the problem of nuclear proliferation by drawing on a wide range of open source resources, tools, and techniques. The programme focuses on all aspects of non-proliferation including country issues; safeguards; trade controls implementation and non-proliferation policy. A unique feature of the programme is its data-centric approach. Alpha non-proliferation houses perhaps the most comprehensive datasets on issues related to non-proliferation through its research platform – Alpha-POST (The Alpha Proliferation Open Source Tool). The programme grew out of Project Alpha established with UK government funding in 2011 to bridge the government-private sector understanding of non-proliferation issues. As such, the programme continues to have a strong export control and illicit trade component. Alpha Non-proliferation currently has more than 10 staff and is directed by Ian Stewart, a senior researcher in the Department of War Studies. The programme works closely with external partners, including the James Martin Centre for Non-proliferation Studies, industry, and international organisations. Project Alpha undertakes some of the most detailed analysis of proliferation, including: - Mapping out the proliferation networks of North Korea, Iran, Pakistan, Syria and other countries; - Tracking all known cases of nuclear and missile-related illicit trade; - Tracking all North Korean linked vessels; and - Undertaking detailed examinations of the security and proliferation challenges associated with emerging technologies.