Joel Elson, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Interdisciplinary Informatics – College of Information Science & Technology
Head of Innovation & Emerging Technology Research Initiatives - NCITE
Joel Elson is an expert in human-centered computing and innovation, focusing on understanding systems and practices of emergent technology.
Biography
Joel Elson, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of Interdisciplinary Informatics in the College of Information Science & Technology. He also serves as a principal investigator and strategic leadership team member at the National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center (NCITE).
Elson is an expert in human-centered computing and technology innovation. His research focuses on understanding systems and practices of emergent technology use by extremists for malevolent purposes, along with benevolent uses of technology for human flourishing.
His counterterrorism and prevention work explores how terrorists and violent extremists might exploit emerging technologies for harmful purposes. Complimenting this work is research into how innovations in technology can promote well-being, enhance social connectedness, and improve quality of life.
Elson’s applied research ventures extend beyond academia into practical collaborations with local businesses, Fortune 500 companies, and significant governmental agencies, including the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
These partnerships highlight his commitment to applying theoretical insights to real-world problems, significantly impacting both corporate and national security policies.
In the News
"’Why Omaha?’: DHS bets on Nebraska as the future of terrorism research” - The Washington Post
“The metaverse offers a future full of potential – for terrorists and extremists, too” - The Conversation
“UNO researchers make progress on preventing violent acts through chatbots” - WOWT
“UNO researchers work with Sarpy County to study violence prevention” - The Omaha World-Herald
Areas of Expertise
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