Postgraduate in English Literature, Cambridge University. 1980s, teaching, research positions and freelancing; 1988-91, Associate Director, Transnational Institute; 1991-93, Director, Transnational Institute; 1993-2001, Director and 2001-03, Senior Adviser, International Peace Research Institute, Oslo. Currently, Professor of Peace and Conflict, University of Manchester. Formerly: Chair, Institute for War and Peace Reporting; Chair, UN Peacebuilding Fund Advisory Group. Published author on conflict, climate change, Middle East, peace building, international politics. Blogs on international politics at www.dansmithsblog.com. Recipient of awards including OBE.