Rishi Sunak Joins Oxford and Stanford in Prestigious Academic Roles
Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Returns to Academia with Positions at Oxford and Stanford
Months after his departure from Downing Street, former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has taken on distinguished academic roles at two of his alma maters: the University of Oxford in the UK and Stanford University in the US.
Sunak, 44, has been appointed as a member of the World Leaders Circle and a Distinguished Fellow at Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government. Simultaneously, Stanford University has named him the William C. Edwards Distinguished Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institution, where he will focus on key global issues such as economic policy, transatlantic relations, technology, and security challenges.
Expressing his enthusiasm for these roles, Sunak stated, “Both Blavatnik and Hoover do outstanding work in addressing economic and security challenges while exploring technological advancements. I have deep affection for both Oxford and Stanford, institutions that shaped my life and career. I look forward to contributing to their world-class research in the coming years.”
The World Leaders Circle at the Blavatnik School of Government serves as a network of former global leaders, fostering international collaboration and discussions on effective governance. Professor Ngaire Woods, Dean of the Blavatnik School, highlighted Sunak’s expertise, emphasizing that his insights would benefit aspiring public leaders tackling global challenges.
William Hague, Chancellor-elect of Oxford University and Sunak’s former mentor in the Conservative Party, hailed his appointment as a “huge asset” to the institution. “Rishi’s connection with Oxford runs deep, and his presence will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of leaders,” Hague remarked.
Meanwhile, at Stanford’s Hoover Institution, Sunak will contribute to research on advancing economic prosperity and international security. Condoleezza Rice, former US Secretary of State and Director of the Hoover Institution, welcomed him, stating that his experience in global policy would significantly enhance the think tank’s work. Stanford University President Jonathan Levin echoed this sentiment, noting that Sunak’s knowledge of geopolitical and economic issues makes him a valuable addition.
Before stepping into politics, Sunak built a successful career in international finance, co-founding an investment firm that supported businesses across different regions. His expertise in policy and economics has been recognized as an asset to both institutions.
By taking up these academic positions, Sunak follows in the footsteps of former UK prime ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, who also pursued teaching and research roles at prestigious universities post-office. While engaging in these academic endeavors, Sunak continues to serve as a Conservative backbench MP in the House of Commons, balancing his commitments in politics and academia.