Jen Henderson

Dr. Jen Henderson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geosciences at Texas Tech University. She directs the Risk and Equity in Disasters (RED) Lab, which focuses on vulnerability, risk communication, and decision-making in weather and climate disasters. Her research addresses compound hazards (e.g., tornadoes, floods, droughts) through interdisciplinary collaborations with the National Weather Service and affected communities.

Education

• B.A. in Psychology and English, Weber State University (2000)
• M.A. in Cultural Studies, Kansas State University (2002)
• M.F.A. in Creative Nonfiction, Goucher College (2004)
• Ph.D. in Science and Technology Studies, Virginia Tech (2016)

Research Focus

Henderson's work examines how risk and uncertainty manifest during disasters, with emphasis on marginalized populations. She employs qualitative methods (interviews, ethnography, social media analysis) to study warning systems, political ecology, and disaster equity. Her RED Lab bridges expert knowledge (e.g., forecasters) and community experiences to co-produce policy-relevant science.

Publications

Her recent articles (2022-2024) explore disaster communication, compound hazards, and qualitative methodologies. Themes include social media analysis of public behavior during hurricanes, ethical frameworks for disaster research, and improving forecast usability for emergency managers. The work consistently integrates social science with operational meteorology.

Professional Activities

• Associate Editor for Weather, Climate and Society
• Member of TTU STEM-CORE