Kerry Brown is Director of the Lau China Institute and Professor of Chinese Studies at King’s College London, where he leads research on contemporary China’s politics, society, and global role. His work sits at the intersection of diplomacy, history, and cultural understanding, and he is widely recognised for his ability to contextualise China’s internal dynamics within broader geopolitical shifts. At King’s, he oversees academic programmes that connect students, policymakers, and researchers to the complexities of modern China.

Before joining King’s, Brown served in the British diplomatic service, including postings in Beijing and London, where he worked on China‑related policy and analysis. His experience in government informs his academic approach, giving his writing and commentary a grounded, real‑world perspective on how states navigate power, trust, and long‑term strategy. He has also held senior research roles at Chatham House and the University of Sydney, contributing to global conversations on China’s rise.

Brown is the author of numerous books on Chinese politics, leadership, and society, and is a frequent commentator in international media. His work often explores how China’s political culture shapes its behaviour on the world stage, and how other countries interpret — or misinterpret — its intentions. Through his scholarship, public writing, and institutional leadership, he has become one of the UK’s most prominent voices on understanding China in a rapidly changing global landscape.