Dr. Maria Blancas is an international relations professional with twelve years of research experience.

She studied her bachelor’s degree in international relations at Tecnologico de Monterrey in Mexico City, holds a master’s degree in international security from the University of Westminster and a PhD in Chinese Studies from King’s College London. She has worked in the public sector within the Mexican Foreign Service (diplomatic and consular branch) and with foreign embassies in Mexico. In the private sector, she has worked mainly as a trade and economic advisor. Her research focuses on international relations issues related to sanctions, trade, foreign policy, human rights, and security. Her research primarily centers on the Asia-Pacific region, particularly the Korean Peninsula, Japan, China, Taiwan, and Tibet. Currently, she is working as an independent researcher.