Publications

CSET produces evidence-driven analysis in a variety of forms, from informative graphics and translations to expert testimony and published reports. Our key areas of inquiry are the foundations of artificial intelligence — such as talent, data and computational power — as well as how AI can be used in cybersecurity and other national security settings. We also do research on the policy tools that can be used to shape AI’s development and use, and on biotechnology.

Analysis

CSET’s 2024 Annual Report

Center for Security and Emerging Technology
| March 2025

In 2024, CSET continued to deliver impactful, data-driven analysis at the intersection of emerging technology and security policy. Explore our annual report to discover key research highlights, expert testimony, and new analytical tools — all aimed at shaping informed, strategic decisions around AI and emerging tech.

Filter publications

Helen Toner testified before the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet on recommendations to bolster security and transparency around U.S.-developed frontier AI.

Read our translation of a Chinese government policy document that provides guidelines for how state investment funds—often used to develop strategic emerging industries—should operate.

Read our translation of a plan listing China’s short- to medium-term policy priorities for agriculture and rural areas.

Read our translation of China's official readout of a Chinese Politburo collective study session on AI, at which Xi Jinping spoke.

Read our translation of an ambitious plan by three Chinese government ministries to make a huge portion of China's datasets discoverable and usable in a single catalog by 2029.

Analysis

Top-Tier Research Status for HBCUs?

Jaret C. Riddick and Brendan Oliss
| April 2025

The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education is simplifying its top-tier R1 research criteria this year. Recognizing the strategic importance of historically Black colleges and universities, Congress passed Section 223 of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act to increase defense research capacity by encouraging the most eligible among these institutions to seek the highly coveted R1 status. This in-depth analysis examines the 2025 classification changes, their effect on eligible HBCUs, and strategies for Congress to maintain progress.

Read our translation of a Chinese regulation that describes the circumstances under which ethics reviews of scientific research must be conducted, and how the review process works.

Read our translation of a policy document that describes how China should go about creating a system for ethics reviews of scientific research.

Read our translation of a regulation that defines the acceptable use of facial recognition technology in China.

Analysis

AI for Military Decision-Making

Emelia Probasco, Helen Toner, Matthew Burtell, and Tim G. J. Rudner
| April 2025

Artificial intelligence is reshaping military decision-making. This concise overview explores how AI-enabled systems can enhance situational awareness and accelerate critical operational decisions—even in high-pressure, dynamic environments. Yet, it also highlights the essential need for clear operational scopes, robust training, and vigilant risk mitigation to counter the inherent challenges of using AI, such as data biases and automation pitfalls. This report offers a balanced framework to help military leaders integrate AI responsibly and effectively.