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Mad Scientist Initiative

Banner which reads "Great Power Competition and Conflict in the Age of Authoritarian Collusion Tuesday, 27 January 2026"

About the Event

The Army Mad Scientist Initiative and William & Mary’s Whole of Government Center of Excellence invite you to a timely and thought-provoking event examining how authoritarian regimes are working together to reshape today’s strategic environment. 

This one-day program will explore the implications of emerging trends in contemporary conflicts and proxy wars, as well as the expanding influence of Russia, China, Iran, and other actors in the Global South and polar regions. Through keynote presentations and panel discussions, participants will gain insights into the operational environment, the challenges posed by authoritarian collusion, and the implications for the Joint Force. 

This event will be held virtually through Zoomgov.com, as well as in-person for local William & Mary faculty, staff, and students.

Coffee and water will be provided; participants will be responsible for their own lunch plans.

Agenda 

0900–0950 | Welcome & Opening Remarks 

0950–1020 | Scene Setter: What We Are Learning about the Operational Environment from Contemporary Conflicts 

1030–1130 | Panel Discussion: Ukraine, the Middle East, and Proxy Wars around the Globe: Emergent Trends and Associated Implications for the Joint Force 

1130–1300 | Lunch Break

1300–1330 | Scene Setter: Competition across the Global South 

1330–1430 | Panel Discussion: Russia, China, and Iran: Expanding their Influence across the Global South 

1440–1520 | Scene Setter: Competition and Collusion in the Arctic and Antarctic 

1520–1620 | Panel Discussion: Russia and China: Expanding Polar Presence and the Race to Exploit and Dominate 

1620–1630 | Closing Remarks 

Registration 

This event will be held virtually through Zoomgov.com, as well as in-person for local William & Mary faculty, staff, and students. Upon registering, you will receive a confirmation email with additional details. Final agenda information and virtual connection instructions will be sent to your registration email closer to the event date.

Click Here to Register

More Information

Visit the Mad Scientist Laboratory at https://madsciblog.tradoc.army.mil/ for conference updates.

Questions? Contact ArmyMadSci@gmail.com or wgc@wm.edu.

Event banner for Great Power Competition and Conflict in the Age of Authoritarian Collusion