Ryan Christenson
Ryan Christenson is a Research Associate at the Center for Global Security Research at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). His research studies explore hedging nuclear capabilities with a focus on mobile strategic systems, as well as U.S. extended deterrence effects across the globe.
Prior to joining LLNL in 2023, Ryan concluded his 7-year U.S. Air Force career as Flight Commander of Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Emergency War Order Plans at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming. During his time in service, he also served as a Minuteman III Senior Instructor and an ICBM Mission Commander with over 10,000 hours on the Minuteman III weapon system.
Ryan is currently pursuing a M.S. in Defense and Strategic Studies/Counter WMD from Missouri State University. He earned a Graduate School of Engineering and Management Certificate in Nuclear Weapon Effects, Policy, And Proliferation from the Air Force Institute of Technology, as well as the Academic Achievement Award during ICBM Rapid Execution and Combat Targeting Operations Training. Ryan received his B.S. in Aviation Technologies from Southern Illinois University with a minor in Aerospace Studies.
