Stefano Casertano explores the connections between the presence of energy natural resources and the development of "local nationalism" in the producing regions. In particular, he applies a specific focus on those cases where such nationalism leads to secession attempts. The research is based on eight case studies in Bolivia, Sudan, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Iran, Angola, and Nigeria.

Stefano Casertano earned his Ph.D. in International Politics at Potsdam University in Germany in 2011, and joined the Brandenburg Institute for Society and Security of Potsdam, specializing in energy and international relations. Since 2009, he has taught international relations at Potsdam University.