In a few words, can you tell us about yourself and how you found your way to the academic field?
After my law degree I studied for an LL.M in International and European law. I then worked for several years in research positions in public international law in London before taking a position at the University of Bonn. After a year in Bonn I began my doctorate study at the University of Oxford.
What is the main core of your research? Can you give an example or two? How is it related to cyber security?
My research focus is on how particular primary rules of international law apply to cyber operations.
Why did you choose this area over all others? Did your personal or professional background lead you to it?
My work on the legality of the use of drones led to me becoming involved in research on cyber operations, which I chose as my DPhil topic when applying to Oxford.
Do you think that in this cyber age these issues are even more complex compared to other times in history? If so – in what ways?
The scope and application of primary rules of international law to cyber operations are currently uncertain. To date, few states have made detailed statements on how they interpret rules of international law apply to cyber operations. The transient and borderless nature of cyber operations poses interesting questions for established international law principles such as the principle of territorial sovereignty and the principle of non-intervention in the affairs of other states.
After explaining the main core of your research, what do you think is the solution? What is the proper model for that? Is it applicable?
In the absence of a treaty to regulate state activity in cyberspace, state practice and opinio juris over time may shape or clarify the application of existing primary rules in these areas.
What is the next phase in your professional life?
My focus is on finishing and submitting my DPhil at Oxford.