KENNESAW, Ga. | Feb 7, 2025

Before coming to Kennesaw State University, Richa earned an undergraduate law degree from her home country of Nepal and master’s degrees from universities in the U.S. and Norway. She also worked with the United Nations General Legal Division, where she gained firsthand experience in the legal operations of a global organization

For Richa Bhattarai, doctoral candidate in the international conflict management program, research is more than an academic pursuit—it’s a bridge between history, policy, and diplomacy. Her dissertation examines a little-known aspect of global security: counterterrorism cooperation between the U.S. and Iran. Through archival research, interviews, and declassified documents, Richa is uncovering moments where strategic interests aligned, despite decades of political discord.

U.S.-Iran relations have long been characterized by diplomatic tensions and economic sanctions. However, as Richa’s research reveals, there have been moments of cooperation, particularly involving the shared goal of combating terrorist organizations. These instances—though often short-lived—offer valuable insights into how adversarial nations can align when faced with mutual security threats.

Richa’s research moves beyond the dominant narrative of hostility, focusing instead on the conditions that allows for diplomatic engagement between these two nations. “My dissertation discovers this unexplored area, dissecting precise conditions that enable opportunities for U.S.-Iran counterterrorism cooperation. By addressing this critical gap,” she explains, “my research reshapes the U.S.-Iran relationship with a complex but navigable landscape, exploring shared challenges and opportunities.” By examining declassified government documents, conducting interviews with foreign policy experts, and analyzing shifts in policy over the years, she has gained a better understanding of the factors that facilitate cooperation.

Navigating a Complex Research Landscape

Conducting research in international conflict management is no small task, and Richa has faced unique challenges. The evolving political backdrop—including the Oct. 7, 2023 Israel-Hamas war and changes in Iranian leadership—has made access to interviews and source material difficult. Additionally, given the sensitive nature of U.S.-Iran relations, she is restricted from accessing certain archives, and at times must rely on indirect sources to piece together her analysis.

Despite these challenges, Richa remains committed to producing rigorous, impactful research. Her mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative interviews with policy analysis ensures that her work is both data driven and informed by real-world perspectives. Although she still is working on the data analysis, she reveals, “Through this research, I expect to evaluate the conditions under which counterterrorism diplomacy between the United States and Iran is most likely to succeed, despite contemporary regional power struggles.”

An International Scholar Finds Supportive Academic Environment at KSU

Before coming to Kennesaw State University, Richa earned an undergraduate law degree from her home country of Nepal and master’s degrees from universities in the U.S. and Norway. She also worked with the United Nations General Legal Division, where she gained firsthand experience in the legal operations of a global organization. Her legal background provides her with a unique lens through which to examine international conflict resolution, allowing her to connect theory to practice.
 
At KSU, Richa found a supportive academic environment that helped propel her research forward. “My experience with the faculty and resources at KSU has been incredibly positive and played a significant role in shaping my academic journey. I am especially grateful for the support and guidance of my dissertation chair, Dr. Kristina Hook. Her mentorship has been invaluable.  Dr. Maia Hallward, director of the International Conflict Management program, and Dr. Charity Butcher, director of the School of Conflict Management, Peacebuilding and Development, who are also members of my dissertation committee, offered essential insights throughout my coursework and ongoing research. Their expertise enriched my understanding of global conflict dynamics and deepened my perspective on conducting mixed-method research.”

As the dissertation chair, Hook observed that Richa’s concepts have evolved in depth and complexity while integrating various theoretical frameworks and literature, thus creating a distinctive approach to U.S.-Iran counterterrorism diplomacy. Hook commented, “Richa works very hard, diligently investing her time, energy, and focus into her research. She is quick to incorporate new ideas and fresh insights and is a dedicated researcher.”

Hallward also acknowledged the progress Richa has made in her academic journey, stating, “She has grown tremendously over the past years, especially under the mentorship of Dr. Hook. Richa also has been selected for a number of prestigious internships and fellowships and has grown in confidence and direction.”

Turning Research into Action by Influencing Academic Discourse and Policymaking

Richa is currently preparing to publish her findings in a book and several academic journals, but for her, the work doesn’t stop at publication. Her ultimate goal is to work in an academic role where she can help shape the next generation of thinkers and leaders, adding, “But I also see myself working closely with government organizations, leveraging my expertise in counterterrorism diplomacy, particularly in the Middle East.” In a world where diplomatic channels are often strained with political obstacles, Richa’s work serves as a reminder that shared security interests can provide common ground for engagement.

Hook observed that Richa’s research uniquely combines conflict management principles with insights from political science and international relations. Hook noted, “This innovative approach not only enriches the field but also offers practical solutions to real-world issues. Her work is
particularly significant for its potential to influence both academic discourse and policymaking, making it invaluable to scholars and policymakers alike.”

Advice for Future Students: “Embrace opportunities for learning and growth”

Before starting the Ph.D. in International Conflict Management program at KSU, Richa said one recurring statement she heard from professionals in the field is that a Ph.D. is a significant commitment that requires absolute dedication. She confirms this is true. “A Ph.D. is not just an academic pursuit; it is a challenge that tests your resilience, your commitment to the field, and your capacity for hard work. It pushes you to continuously question yourself, adapt, and grow.”

For those who are passionate about solving global conflicts and making a difference, Richa recommends KSU’s program. “You need persistence, a strong work ethic, and a genuine interest in understanding and addressing conflict dynamics on a global scale. The program is intellectually rewarding, and the faculty and resources at KSU are exceptional.”
 
Richa emphasizes that the professors are not only experts in their fields but are also deeply committed to supporting students through every step of their academic journey. “I would highly encourage anyone considering this path to fully engage with the available resources and maintain a curious mindset. Keep an open mind and embrace the opportunities for learning and growth that come your way. The journey may be tough, but it is also incredibly fulfilling, and the skills and knowledge you gain will serve you well in any future career.”

As Richa prepares to take the next steps in her academic and professional journey, the KSU Graduate College celebrates the power of research to transform our understanding of international relations. Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of a better world—values that define the KSU community.

 – By Tracy Gaudlip

Photo by Darnell Wilburn