leonard weiss

Leonard Weiss is a prominent figure currently serving as a Visiting Scholar at Stanford University's Center for International Security and Cooperation (CISAC). His academic and professional background is rooted in engineering and public policy, with a significant focus on nuclear proliferation and arms control.

Academic and Professional Background

• Education: Weiss earned his Ph.D. in engineering from Johns Hopkins University after completing his master's degree at Columbia University and his undergraduate studies at the City College of New York.
• Career Path: Before joining Stanford, he held various academic positions, including professorships at Brown University and the University of Maryland. His transition to public service began when he became the staff director for the Senate Subcommittee on Energy, Nuclear Proliferation, and Federal Services, where he played a crucial role in the development of significant legislation such as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act of 1978.123
• Research Interests: At CISAC, Weiss focuses on issues related to nuclear security, including historical analyses of nuclear events and their implications for current policies. He has contributed to discussions regarding Israel's nuclear capabilities and U.S. foreign policy concerning nuclear arms control.25

Contributions and Publications

Weiss has been involved in various projects that analyze nuclear incidents, including the Vela Incident of 1979, which raised questions about clandestine nuclear tests. His insights are often sought in discussions surrounding international security and nonproliferation norms.35

Current Role

In addition to his role at Stanford, Weiss is also a member of the National Advisory Board for various organizations focused on science and security issues. His extensive experience in both academia and government positions him as a key voice in discussions about nuclear policy today.45

Leonard Weiss's career reflects a commitment to bridging the gap between scientific research and public policy, particularly in areas critical to global security.