My main research interests focus on the application of critical security studies to the analysis of human security, peacebuilding, and natural disasters.  My work has focused on how these shape the relationships between local communities, civil society and the state. I am particularly interested in the examination of the roles of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in current security practices. My research has had a geographic focus on Southeast Asia, and Cambodia in particular. I have been increasingly focused on the field of disaster studies, exploring how narratives of security impact upon vulnerabilities and disaster risk reduction strategies.