Dr Nikita Chiu is Senior Lecturer in Innovation Policy at the University of Exeter. In 2019, she was named Ad Astra Distinguished Fellow in Robotic and Outer Space Governance by the Space Engineering Research Center at USC. She was the Research Fellow in Robotics and Outer Space Technologies at the Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Oxford, and is a former Research Affiliate at the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk at the University of Cambridge. An International Relations scholar by training, Dr. Chiu taught Foreign Policy and Global Governance first in Hong Kong, then in Tallinn and the UK. Prior to her career in Technology Governance, she read Technology Policy at St Edmund’s College at the University of Cambridge, and gained her PhD from the Graduate Institute of International Studies in Geneva in 2014.
Dr Chiu is a former recipient of the Ernst Mach Grant. Named after the Austrian physicist, the grant enabled the investigation of multilevel governance policy at the city, national, and international (UN) level. Dr Chiu is also a mentor for Space4Women, a network organized by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs(UNOOSA) to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals. She was selected as one of “20 under 35” future leaders to watch by the Space & Satellite Professionals International in 2019 for her work on space sustainability.
Dr Chiu’s ongoing research investigates the dynamics between technological advances and governance, with a focus on understanding the socio-economic, policy, and security impact brought by the increasing commercialization of robotics, quantum, and space technologies.
In 2021, Dr Chiu was nominated and selected to take up the IAS Fellowship at Durham University's Institute of Advanced Study (IAS) and Hatfield College, contributing to the Enabling Responsible Space Exploitation project. Together with colleagues from Physics, Education, and Business Studies, the IAS fellowship will aim to strengthen research and collaborations between space clusters across the UK, as well as consolidate UK’s international leadership and regional development in the space sector.
Qualifications
BSSc(CUHK), MPhil (Cantab), MA, PhD (Geneva)
FRSA FHEA
Awards and honours
- Ad Astra Distinguished Fellow in Robotic & Outer Space Governance, Space Engineering Research Center, USC
- Space & Satellite Professionals International “20 under 35” Future Leaders to Watch, 2019
- Ernst Mach Grant, OeAD/Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF), 2012
Invited lectures
- “Removing Space Debris : Global Affairs and Technology Perspectives," Joint Lecture with Airbus and the French Embassy in the UK, The Royal Society, St James's, London, UK, 7th Dec 2018
- Presentation at the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs / Germany High-Level Forum 2018
“The way forward after UNISPACE+50 and on Space2030,” Bonn, Germany, 13-16 Nov 2018
- Presentation at the United NationsOffice for Outer Space Affairs / UAE High-Level Forum 2017
"Space as a Driver for Sustainable Development," Dubai, UAE, 6-9 Nov 2017
Links
Key publications | Publications by category | Publications by year
Publications by category
Journal articles
Chiu N (2023). Orbis Non Sufficit - Co-operation and Discord in Global Space and Disarmament Governance.
Hague Journal of DiplomacyAbstract:
Orbis Non Sufficit - Co-operation and Discord in Global Space and Disarmament Governance
This article seeks to contribute to the burgeoning debate on space diplomacy by examining the historic interplay between diplomatic discussions on outer space and nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation (NPD). It studies three significant cases since the Cold War, when space technologies constituted a significant topic in diplomatic exchanges and in advancing foreign policy objectives related to global arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation. The cases trace early negotiations between Washington and Moscow on using satellites to detect nuclear detonations, to multilateral attempts at establishing an International Satellite Monitoring Agency (ISMA), and conclude with a study on the use of satellite imagery in inspections under the auspices of the United Nations Special Commission on Iraq (UNSCOM).
Abstract.
DOI.
Chiu N (2019). Cities & International Policy Diffusion: the Case of Tokyo.
Baltic Journal of European Studies,
9(2), 61-74.
Abstract:
Cities & International Policy Diffusion: the Case of Tokyo
Abstract
. In an increasingly globalised world, today’s international challenges such as climate change transcend national boundaries and require multi-level governance responses. Cities, in particular, stand out as an essential governing unit with huge potentials in resolving some of the 21st century’s most pressing concerns. The recent explosion of the phenomenon of city-networks reflects intensifying city-to-city interactions in addressing global environmental issues. This article examines the case of Tokyo in addressing challenges posed by climate change. Examining the origin, development, and diffusion of Tokyo’s climate change policy, the cap-and-trade scheme was found to have first diffused from Europe to Tokyo, adjusted to adapt to the local context, then further diffused to other Asian cities. Study of Tokyo’s experience demonstrates that policy formation does not always follow a centralized, top-down, command-and-control approach. This findings challenge conventional realist conception which emphasises the dominance of central authorities and sovereign states in global policy formation. Under the framework of global governance, this article argues that cities are important sites of policy experimentation and innovation, and that the case of Tokyo demonstrates the potential of cross-country policy diffusion.
Abstract.
DOI.
Chiu SW (2019). Promoting international co-operation in the age of global space governance – a study on on-orbit servicing operations.
Acta Astronautica,
161, 375-381.
Abstract:
Promoting international co-operation in the age of global space governance – a study on on-orbit servicing operations
Outer space exploration has been an area where the international community demonstrated a significant level of co-operation, successfully transcending geographical, national and cultural boundaries. In the age of global governance, international co-operation has never been more important in resolving today's global challenges. One of such challenges is the growing amount of space debris in orbits, which, if unresolved, will not only undermine global information and communications technology (ICT) system, but will also hinder areas of sustainable development where outer space activities contribute to. (e.g. satellite imaging for disaster warning and management, satellite imaging for agricultural purpose) This paper proposes to conceptualize space orbit and radio frequency as essential global commons, whose governance requires international co-operation. In examining potentials and challenges in moving forward space orbit governance, the paper pays particular focus on ensuring space safety and sustainability through the introduction of on-orbit servicing (OOS) operations. The paper will identify aspects of OOS that warrant further collaborations, specifically, the standardization of docking and rendez-vous practices that could facilitate future space activities. Recognizing the potential of future commercialization of refueling, repairing and debris removal operations in orbits, this paper argues that standardization practices would be the first step towards enhancing international co-operation, as well as in strengthening the existing regime of peaceful use of outer space. Ultimately, it could play a role in addressing one of today's most imminent challenges – ensuring sustainable use of global commons.
Abstract.
DOI.
Chiu N (2011). NETWORKED CITIES' RESPONSES TO GLOBAL PROBLEMS: a TYPOLOGY. Journal of Comparative Politics
Chiu N (2010). Evaluating Sub-State Participation in the History of International Health Co-operation. Central European Journal of International and Security Studies
Conferences
Chiu N (2022). Disruptive Innovation – a Study on the Interplay between Policy & the Commercialization of Drone (UAV) Technologies. British Academy of Management. 31st Aug - 2nd Sep 2022.
Abstract:
Disruptive Innovation – a Study on the Interplay between Policy & the Commercialization of Drone (UAV) Technologies
Abstract.
Chiu SW, Chiu SW (2022). Diversity for a Sustainable Space Future –
Opportunities and Challenges for promoting diversity in the space sector. 18th - 22nd Sep 2022.
Abstract:
Diversity for a Sustainable Space Future –
Opportunities and Challenges for promoting diversity in the space sector
Abstract.
Chiu SW (2022). Scenario Planning for the Future of Innovation in Space and Emerging Technologies. 73rd International Astronautical Congress. 18th - 22nd Sep 2022.
Abstract:
Scenario Planning for the Future of Innovation in Space and Emerging Technologies
Abstract.
Chiu SW (2018). Digital diplomacy: the use of space technologies in enhancing compliance to international regimes. International Astronautical Congress. 1st - 5th Oct 2018.
Chiu N, Porat Y, et al. (2016). The On-Orbit Servicing Answer to Safety and Sustainability for Future Space Activities. International Astronautical Congress.
Reports
CTGA (2018). The Role of Private Industry and Public Policy in Shaping the Drones Industry -- the First "Robotic Skies" Workshop Report. Oxford, CTGA, University of Oxford.
SGAC (2016). Space debris, safety of space objects with nuclear power sources on board and problems relating to their collision with space debris," Report submitted to the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, 54th session., United Nations General Assembly A/AC.105/C.1/111.
Publications by year
2023
Chiu N (2023). Orbis Non Sufficit - Co-operation and Discord in Global Space and Disarmament Governance.
Hague Journal of DiplomacyAbstract:
Orbis Non Sufficit - Co-operation and Discord in Global Space and Disarmament Governance
This article seeks to contribute to the burgeoning debate on space diplomacy by examining the historic interplay between diplomatic discussions on outer space and nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation (NPD). It studies three significant cases since the Cold War, when space technologies constituted a significant topic in diplomatic exchanges and in advancing foreign policy objectives related to global arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation. The cases trace early negotiations between Washington and Moscow on using satellites to detect nuclear detonations, to multilateral attempts at establishing an International Satellite Monitoring Agency (ISMA), and conclude with a study on the use of satellite imagery in inspections under the auspices of the United Nations Special Commission on Iraq (UNSCOM).
Abstract.
DOI.
2022
Chiu N (2022). Disruptive Innovation – a Study on the Interplay between Policy & the Commercialization of Drone (UAV) Technologies. British Academy of Management. 31st Aug - 2nd Sep 2022.
Abstract:
Disruptive Innovation – a Study on the Interplay between Policy & the Commercialization of Drone (UAV) Technologies
Abstract.
Chiu SW, Chiu SW (2022). Diversity for a Sustainable Space Future –
Opportunities and Challenges for promoting diversity in the space sector. 18th - 22nd Sep 2022.
Abstract:
Diversity for a Sustainable Space Future –
Opportunities and Challenges for promoting diversity in the space sector
Abstract.
Chiu SW (2022). Scenario Planning for the Future of Innovation in Space and Emerging Technologies. 73rd International Astronautical Congress. 18th - 22nd Sep 2022.
Abstract:
Scenario Planning for the Future of Innovation in Space and Emerging Technologies
Abstract.
2019
Chiu N (2019). Cities & International Policy Diffusion: the Case of Tokyo.
Baltic Journal of European Studies,
9(2), 61-74.
Abstract:
Cities & International Policy Diffusion: the Case of Tokyo
Abstract
. In an increasingly globalised world, today’s international challenges such as climate change transcend national boundaries and require multi-level governance responses. Cities, in particular, stand out as an essential governing unit with huge potentials in resolving some of the 21st century’s most pressing concerns. The recent explosion of the phenomenon of city-networks reflects intensifying city-to-city interactions in addressing global environmental issues. This article examines the case of Tokyo in addressing challenges posed by climate change. Examining the origin, development, and diffusion of Tokyo’s climate change policy, the cap-and-trade scheme was found to have first diffused from Europe to Tokyo, adjusted to adapt to the local context, then further diffused to other Asian cities. Study of Tokyo’s experience demonstrates that policy formation does not always follow a centralized, top-down, command-and-control approach. This findings challenge conventional realist conception which emphasises the dominance of central authorities and sovereign states in global policy formation. Under the framework of global governance, this article argues that cities are important sites of policy experimentation and innovation, and that the case of Tokyo demonstrates the potential of cross-country policy diffusion.
Abstract.
DOI.
Chiu SW (2019). Promoting international co-operation in the age of global space governance – a study on on-orbit servicing operations.
Acta Astronautica,
161, 375-381.
Abstract:
Promoting international co-operation in the age of global space governance – a study on on-orbit servicing operations
Outer space exploration has been an area where the international community demonstrated a significant level of co-operation, successfully transcending geographical, national and cultural boundaries. In the age of global governance, international co-operation has never been more important in resolving today's global challenges. One of such challenges is the growing amount of space debris in orbits, which, if unresolved, will not only undermine global information and communications technology (ICT) system, but will also hinder areas of sustainable development where outer space activities contribute to. (e.g. satellite imaging for disaster warning and management, satellite imaging for agricultural purpose) This paper proposes to conceptualize space orbit and radio frequency as essential global commons, whose governance requires international co-operation. In examining potentials and challenges in moving forward space orbit governance, the paper pays particular focus on ensuring space safety and sustainability through the introduction of on-orbit servicing (OOS) operations. The paper will identify aspects of OOS that warrant further collaborations, specifically, the standardization of docking and rendez-vous practices that could facilitate future space activities. Recognizing the potential of future commercialization of refueling, repairing and debris removal operations in orbits, this paper argues that standardization practices would be the first step towards enhancing international co-operation, as well as in strengthening the existing regime of peaceful use of outer space. Ultimately, it could play a role in addressing one of today's most imminent challenges – ensuring sustainable use of global commons.
Abstract.
DOI.
2018
Chiu SW (2018). Digital diplomacy: the use of space technologies in enhancing compliance to international regimes. International Astronautical Congress. 1st - 5th Oct 2018.
CTGA (2018). The Role of Private Industry and Public Policy in Shaping the Drones Industry -- the First "Robotic Skies" Workshop Report. Oxford, CTGA, University of Oxford.
2016
SGAC (2016). Space debris, safety of space objects with nuclear power sources on board and problems relating to their collision with space debris," Report submitted to the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, 54th session., United Nations General Assembly A/AC.105/C.1/111.
Chiu N, Porat Y, et al. (2016). The On-Orbit Servicing Answer to Safety and Sustainability for Future Space Activities. International Astronautical Congress.
2011
Chiu N (2011). NETWORKED CITIES' RESPONSES TO GLOBAL PROBLEMS: a TYPOLOGY. Journal of Comparative Politics
2010
Chiu N (2010). Evaluating Sub-State Participation in the History of International Health Co-operation. Central European Journal of International and Security Studies
Awards/Honorary fellowships
Ad Astra Distinguished Fellow in Robotic and Outer Space Governance
Space Engineering Research Center, USC
IAS Fellow, Institute of Advanced Study/ Hatfield College Senior Common Room, Durham University
Advice to Government, Parliament, devolved and English regional administrations, other national, international, regional or local agencies; advice to non-government organisations and to private practice
Member 2018 - 2019
Lib Dem Technology Commission, Convened by Prof Sue Black OBE and Jo Swinson CBE
Editorial responsibilities
Guest Editor for the Special Issue on "Technology Governance"
TalTech Journal of European Studies
Conferences and invited presentations
Speaker for the panel on "The Future of 'Earth to Earth' Space Travel: Challenges and Prospects" at Space-Comm Expo, held at Farnborough.
Fellow panelists include Paul Cremins MBE (Commercial Spaceflight Regulation and Policy Lead, UK Department for Transport), Pam Underwood (Director, Office of Spaceports, US Federal Aviation Administration), and Frank DiBello (CEO, Space Florida)
Click here for Video Highlights
External positions
External Assessor
University of Oxford
Evaluator
Marie Skłodowska–Curie COFUND Action - Martí Franquès COFUND Programme
Media Coverage
Interview with and coverage in the Financial Times
"High ambition as business schools launch space programmes" 30 November 2022/ 5 December 2022 (in print)
Interview with The Hive Life - Business News, Entrepreneurial Insights & Lifestyle Guides
"It's Time to Take the Trash out of Space" 22 Jan 2019
Podcast with Dr Robert Doubleday, Director of the Centre for Science and Policy (CSaP) at the University of Cambridge, Part of a six-part miniseries featuring space experts, including Dr Graham Turnock, former CEO of the UK Space Agency
"Pollution and environmental exploitation in near space, the deep ocean, and antarctica" 31 March 2021
Research funding
Ernst Mach Grant 2012
Fellowship, Institute of Advanced Study/ Hatfield College, Durham University 2022
Workshops/Conferences organised
Technologies and Traces of Memories - An Exploratory Interdisciplinary Workshop on the Interplay Between Technological Advances and Memories, Exeter, 17 June 2022
Click here for workshop's programme
Dr Chiu's research-informed teaching investigate the dynamics between technological advances and governance, with a focus on understanding the socio-economic, policy, and security impact brought by the increasing commercialization of robotics, quantum, and space technologies.
Exeter 2021-2022
BEMM118J Strategic Innovation Management
Oxford 2021 -
Supervision, Oxford Diplomatic Studies Programme
Tallinn 2015
China and the New World Order
Hong Kong 2014
Chinese Foreign Policy
Greater China and the World
Modules
2022/23
