Nickson Quak

Nickson is a Master’s in International Policy student specializing in Cyber Policy and Security at Stanford University. With a keen interest in geopolitics and emerging technologies, he currently serves as a Graduate Research Assistant at the Stanford Cyber Policy Center’s Geopolitics, Technology, and Governance program, where he explores the strategic implications of implementing export controls on Quantum Computing technologies. Concurrently, Nickson is also a Defense Innovation Scholar at the Stanford Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation, where he works on maritime security in the South China Sea using open-source intelligence techniques and tools, as part of Project Myoushu. 

Prior to Stanford, Nickson served in the Singapore Armed Forces for six years. Beginning as an enlistee and a non-commissioned officer, Nickson rapidly rose through the enlisted ranks to earn his commission as a second lieutenant, placing in the top 10% of his Officer Cadet cohort in 2018. Following which, Nickson pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (Honours with Highest Distinction) at the National University of Singapore, where he graduated as the class valedictorian in 2022. 

At Stanford, Nickson seeks to broaden his understanding of security by adopting a fresh perspective centred around the dynamic field of cybersecurity. Captivated by the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing, he is particularly intrigued by how these emerging technologies can revolutionize the offensive capabilities wielded by malicious cyber threat actors, introducing novel challenges in the protection against cyber threats. As an advocate for open-source intelligence, he firmly believes in the power of investigative research and collaborative intelligence sharing to proactively address vulnerabilities, fortify the resilience of our digital ecosystem, and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of cyber risks. 

Beyond his academic and research pursuits, Nickson finds joy in the realms of philosophy, history, anthropology, and sociology. Keeping active, he also enjoys cycling, hiking, running, and racket sports like pickleball and badminton. Originally from Singapore, Nickson brings a global perspective to his studies and is driven by a passion to contribute to strategic intelligence, cybersecurity, and technology policy.