Jesse Kaplan

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Jesse Kaplan is a third-year student at Lehigh University pursuing a B.A. in International Relations and Economics. His academic interests focus on defense policy, intelligence, and national security. During the spring of 2026, he studied abroad at the University of Sydney, where he explored international affairs, global economics, and international business strategy from a comparative perspective. As an Undergraduate Research Assistant at the Defense Industrial Base Institute (DIBI), Jesse contributes to research on advanced manufacturing, drone technologies, and challenges facing the defense industrial base. Following graduation, he plans to attend law school and pursue a career at the intersection of national security, public policy, and law. Outside of work and school, Jesse enjoys following sports, reading, and staying engaged with current events and politics.