Dr George Varughese is Director of the Institute of Global Development and Associate Professor at the University of New South Wales, Australia. He is a development professional and political scientist with a particular interest in development and humanitarian assistance in conflict-affected and transitional contexts. His practice spans 25 years of long-term engagements in Nepal and Afghanistan, as well as work across the Indo Pacific region, including in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Timor-Leste.

Prior to joining the University of New South Wales, Dr Varughese held the Kabul-based positions of Principal Advisor/Chief of Staff to the Deputy Special Representative (Development) of the United Nations Secretary-General for Afghanistan and the position of Chief of Service – Sustainable Development, United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.

Dr Varughese holds a Joint PhD in Political Science & Public Administration from Indiana University, Bloomington.