Charles Lister
About Charles Lister
Charles Lister is a Senior Fellow and Director of Counterterrorism at the Middle East Institute, with extensive experience in analyzing terrorism and insurgency in the Levant. He has authored notable works, including 'The Syrian Jihad,' and has served as an expert witness in counter-terrorism cases in both the U.S. and Australia.
Work at Middle East Institute
Charles Lister serves as Senior Fellow and Director of Counterterrorism at the Middle East Institute. He has held this position since 2016, focusing on issues related to terrorism and insurgency in the Middle East. His role involves conducting research, providing expert analysis, and engaging in policy discussions related to counterterrorism strategies.
Education and Expertise
Charles Lister studied International Relations at the University of St Andrews, where he achieved First Class MA Honours from 2007 to 2011. He also attended Malvern College from 1990 to 2009. His academic background supports his expertise in counterterrorism and regional security issues, particularly in the context of the Middle East.
Background
Before joining the Middle East Institute, Charles Lister held various positions that contributed to his expertise in counterterrorism. He worked at IHS Jane's as an Analyst and Head of the MENA division from 2011 to 2013. He was a Visiting Fellow at The Brookings Institution's Doha Center from 2013 to 2015 and served as a Senior Consultant at The Shaikh Group from 2013 to 2016.
Achievements
Charles Lister is the author of the book 'The Syrian Jihad: Al-Qaeda, the Islamic State and the Evolution of an Insurgency,' which received critical acclaim and was described as 'indispensable' by the New York Times. He has also provided congressional and parliamentary testimony in the U.S., U.K., and the Netherlands, and has served as an expert witness in counter-terrorism cases in both the U.S. and Australia.
Research Focus
Charles Lister's research primarily concentrates on terrorism and insurgency in the Levant region. He has managed extensive engagement with Syrian armed opposition groups and is involved in initiatives such as the Syria Track II Dialogue Initiative. His work aims to provide insights into the dynamics of conflict and counterterrorism in the Middle East.