To schedule an interview, call (310) 451-6913 or email media@rand.org.
Obaid Younossi is vice dean and a professor of policy analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy, and a senior policy researcher at RAND. As vice dean, he provides strategic leadership and guidance for the school, oversees academic programs and strategic initiatives, and works closely with school staff and administrators to ensure rigorous academic standards. His focus is on building the capabilities of future policy analysts and shaping the next generation of public policy leaders.
Since joining RAND in 1998, Younossi has held several impactful roles, including director of the Defense and Political Sciences Department, director of the Resource Management Program for Project AIR FORCE, and director of the RAND-Qatar Policy Institute. His research spans emerging technologies, military acquisition and procurement, institutional reforms, and defense budgeting and spending. He has led and worked on a wide range of studies for the U.S. Air Force, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the U.S. Navy, the U.K. Ministry of Defence, Government of Qatar, Government of Oman, and the Australian Department of Defence.
Younossi is known for his clear, heart-forward communication style. He continues to contribute to RAND's mission through his research and leadership, fostering a multidisciplinary, collaborative environment that drives effective policy analysis in the public interest.
He holds a Ph.D. and M.Phil. in public policy from The George Washington University, an M.A. in international affairs from George Mason University, and a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh.
Ph.D. and M.Phil. in public policy, The George Washington University; M.A. in international affairs, George Mason University; B.S. in mechanical engineering, University of Pittsburgh
