The Ongoing Transformation will be back soon! In the meantime, we’re bringing you an episode of a podcast we all enjoy: Lab Coat Optional, which is produced by Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise.  The podcast looks at research, the people behind it and why it matters.

In this episode, Nadya Bliss — executive director of ASU’s Advanced Capabilities for National Security Institute — explains how national security is more than tanks and battleships. She breaks down the vital role university research plays behind the scenes to anticipate emerging needs, strengthen infrastructure, accelerate innovation and quietly prevent conflict.