Dr. Govinda Clayton is a senior researcher in peace processes within the Center for Security Studies at ETH Zurich. His research interests include: negotiation; mediation; conflict management; civil war; bargaining theory; violence against civilians; non-state armed groups; pro-government militias; mathematical and statistical models; research design and methodology.

His doctoral research examined the use of third-party conflict management during civil war, in particular exploring the extent to which dyadic relations between belligerents influence the onset and outcome of mediation. His research remains primarily focused on negotiation and mediation during civil conflict, using advanced quantitative methods to systematically assess the conditions that shape the outcome of third-party led conflict management. He has published work in a number of leading international peer-reviewed journals, including: the Journal of Peace Research; International Studies Quarterly; Conflict Management and Peace Science; Cooperation and Conflict; and Studies of Conflict and Terrorism. Dr Clayton is also the Deputy Editor of International Peacekeeping.