Elis Vllasi, Ph.D., is an expert in analyzing complex challenges emanating in the grey zone as a result of influence operations, information warfare, social media weaponization, and emerging and disruptive technologies. A civil and environmental engineer with a Ph.D. in political science from Purdue University, Vllasi bridges social sciences and STEM to tackle problems using tailored approaches combining quantitative and qualitative analyses. An experienced entrepreneur in academic programming and project manager, with a record of interfacing with government officials and military officers (USA, Canada, Japan, Kosovo), private industry, and academia, he has led projects and managed research teams in industry and academia.His current research interests involve examining Chinese and Russian grey zone (hybrid) warfare strategies and tactics. As a Fulbright Fellow, he conducted a pilot study examining Russia’s influence in Kosovo.He is the founder and director of the Hybrid Warfare Student Competition. Vllasi is an experienced and award-winning university instructor who has taught numerous courses on International Relations and Security.