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I am Khayyam Rzazade, a political scientist, PhD Research Fellow, Yoga instructor, and athlete with a passion for continuous learning and exploration. Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in Security and Strategic Studies at the University of Genoa and Science Po Paris as a part of the IDEoPOP project, funded by the EU’s Horizon Europe – Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. My research focuses on how populist actors influence foreign and defense policy changes in Europe, with a comparative study of Italy, Spain, and France. My academic background lies in EU foreign and security policy, international relations, and political analysis.

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I hold an Advance Master of Art in EU International Relations and Diplomacy from the College of Europe (Bruges Campus), where I was awarded an ENP full scholarship. My thesis, Collective Securitization of Russia in the EU, explored how the EU collectively perceives Russia as a security threat. Before that, I completed a Master’s degree in Comparative International Relations at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, with an Erasmus+ exchange at Belarusian State University in Minsk. To gain hand on practical insights into diplomacy, I  was trained at the Warsaw-based European Academy of Diplomacy. My academic journey began at Baku State University, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Economics.

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Throughout my career, I have combined teaching, research, and professional experience. I worked as a visiting/adjunct lecturer at ADA University, teaching International Security to Masters' students and at Baku State University, teaching Political Theory, Political Analysis, and Critical Thinking to over 200 students. My time at the European Parliament, assisting former MEP Frank Schwalba-Hoth, gave me first-hand experience in policy research, legislative analysis, and civil society engagement. I also interned at the National Parliament of Azerbaijan, where I focused on foreign and interparliamentary relations.

Beyond academia, I have a deep commitment to yoga and sports. After intensive training in Rishikesh, India, I became a yoga instructor, specializing in Yoga Philosophy, Hatha, Ashtanga Vinyasa, and Iyengar Yoga. I have taught in Vietnam, Morocco, Azerbaijan, and online, helping students deepen their practice. In addition to yoga, I am a competitive Ultimate Frisbee player of Vortex Ultimate Frisbee Club in Azerbaijan and some other clubs.

More about my life story on "About Me" section.