Avery Kirkpatrick is a Senior Associate of Research and Content Development at Gray Space Strategies, where she supports clients navigating the federal landscape through conducting research on issues related to emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure. With a background in psychology, computer science, and international affairs, she applies a multi-disciplinary and analytical approach to assessing complex security challenges.

Avery’s research interests center on how state and non-state actors leverage technology and psychological tactics to shape narratives, exploit vulnerabilities, and influence global security. Following her graduation, she completed a 6-month internship with 2430 Group, where she conducted open-source intelligence (OSINT) research focused on foreign ownership, control, and influence (FOCI) risks, Russian disinformation campaigns, and critical infrastructure threats in the telecommunications sector. She also leveraged AI tools and data analysis techniques to streamline research processes on state-sponsored threats. Her earlier experience includes internships with the Department of Education’s Office of Legislation and Congressional Affairs and the Government Accountability Office, where she developed expertise in legislative processes and project management methodologies.

Avery graduated cum laude and with Honors in Psychology, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Computer Science and Politics & International Affairs. Her honors research examined how generative AI influences opinion compared to human experts, reflecting her broader interest in the intersection of technology, cognition, and human behavior. Her ability to bridge technical, psychological, and security disciplines allows her to translate complex topics into actionable insights in both policy and national security spaces.