Dr Anna Powles is an Associate Professor in Security Studies at Massey University, specialising in Pacific security and geopolitics. Her research, publications and policy-related activities are focussed on the interplay between local and external security dynamics in the Pacific and explore interventions in Pacific conflicts, security sector assistance, security cooperation and defence diplomacy, the Australia-New Zealand alliance in the Pacific, regional security architecture, and strategic competition in the Pacific.

Prior to joining Massey University, Powles worked in conflict and humanitarian emergencies and security sector reform in Timor-Leste and the Pacific with the United Nations, International Crisis Group and international humanitarian agencies. She holds a PhD from the Australian National University.