Dr. Stefano Costanzi is the Horace S. and May Davidson Isbell Professor of Chemistry and Policy at American University in Washington, DC. He holds degrees in both the chemical sciences and international affairs, having earned a Laurea degree in Chemistry and a PhD in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Camerino, as well as a Master of International Service from American University’s School of International Service.

Dr. Costanzi’s current research sits at the nexus of chemistry and security policy, with an emphasis on developing computational approaches that support efforts to counter the threat of chemical weapons. In this domain, he studies arms control, nonproliferation, and counterproliferation strategies, policies, and practices, with the goal of conceptualizing and developing solutions that strengthen the international system designed to prevent the re-emergence of chemical weapons.

Earlier in his career, Dr. Costanzi applied computational chemistry to study the interaction of chemicals with living organisms, with a particular focus on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)—the cellular targets of numerous prescription drugs and nearly all drugs of abuse. Through this work, he made important contributions to expanding the scope and applicability of molecular modeling to the study of GPCRs.

Dr. Costanzi is a member of several international organizations operating at the intersection of science and policy to combat the proliferation of chemical and biological weapons. His affiliations include the International Center for Chemical Safety and Security Global team, the Scientists Working Group on Biological and Chemical Security, and the Chemical Weapons Convention Coalition.