Feature Friday: Jacob Feldgoise

Jacob Feldgoise ’s latest work highlights the significant depth and influence of his research. He has been instrumental in analyzing complex policy issues, such as the recent updates to U.S. export controls on advanced chips and semiconductor manufacturing equipment. His ability to break down intricate technical and policy details into clear, actionable insights is highly useful in informing policymakers and stakeholders about the implications of these regulations on U.S.-China technology competition.

We appreciate Jacob's valuable contributions and the essential role his work plays in shaping our understanding of the complex dynamics between technology, policy, and international relations. His unique blend of technical knowledge, policy acumen, and cultural understanding makes him a vital contributor in navigating the challenges of emerging technology governance.

We're eager to hear more about Jacob's insights and his perspectives on the future of U.S.-China technology competition and policy. Over to you, Jacob!

What do you like most about CSET?

CSET’s culture of questioning assumptions. CSET’s fellows and directors encourage younger analysts to unpack the assumptions that are baked into DC policy conversations and U.S. government policies. That process helps us improve the quality of our analysis, and combined with our data resources, allows us to make meaningful contributions.

What are you most excited about what you are working on right now?

With my colleague Hanna Dohmen, I’m working on a set of projects that unpack and assess the semiconductor export controls developed by the Biden Administration. It’s a fascinating set of policies at the intersection of two complex domains (export controls and semiconductor supply chains), and I love every second that I spend on it. For one project, I’m continuing to build out a dataset of AI chips to understand the impact of export controls on the global chip design market.?

What inspired you to pursue your current career path?

When I was younger, I thought I would have to choose a career that aligns with only one of my core interest areas (and discard the other two): public policy, engineering/technology, and Chinese studies. I feel very lucky to have found a career at the intersection of all three; it’s a dream come true!

What has been your most rewarding project at CSET and why?

I’m very proud of the blog post that my colleague and I wrote last year which explains the October 2023 semiconductor export controls. The rules are very complicated and I think we did a good job distilling them. We also put together two very cool interactive charts!

What trends in our industry excite you the most?

I’m very excited by data modernization efforts within the U.S. government because of the opportunities it presents for external research institutions like CSET. Agencies across the U.S. government are collecting more (and better) data on their operations, and they’re releasing it with greater frequency to the public. These efforts provide new and improved data resources, which helps improve the quality of our analysis, and allows us to provide better recommendations to policymakers.

What's a fun fact that not many people know about you?

Every summer or so, I go up to New Hampshire to hike the Presidential mountains with my family.

Outside of work, what are your passions or hobbies?

I love to sing and play the piano. It brings me so much joy!

What is your favorite book or podcast, and why?

Right now, my favorite podcast is “Derisky Business” from CNAS. Each week is a thought-provoking discussion on economic security policy, and the hosts are awesome.