Jonathan Matusitz

Jonathan Matusitz is a Professor of Communication at the Nicholson School of Communication and Media (NSCM) at the University of Central Florida (UCF). He specializes in terrorism communication, symbolism in terrorism, globalization of communication, and public health campaigns. His work bridges academic research with practical applications, including advising law enforcement agencies like the Department of Homeland Security. He has published over 170 articles and 10 books on terrorism communication, including landmark works like Terrorism & Communication (2013) and Communication in the Metaverse (2024).

Dr. Matusitz earned his Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma (2006). He has taught courses ranging from qualitative research methods to terrorism communication theory. His research methodologies include thematic analysis, semiotics, and theoretical analysis. He has collaborated internationally, including with India’s Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) on suicide terrorism studies.

His research interests emphasize the intersection of communication and global conflict, with recent work exploring digital media’s role in Sub-Saharan African jihadism and the communicative potential of the Metaverse. He has also examined child terrorism, female extremism, and the symbolic dimensions of terrorist campaigns.

Dr. Matusitz has received multiple teaching awards, including the College of Sciences’ prestigious awards in 2012 and 2017, and the Nicholson School’s Excellence in Teaching Award (2013-2014). His public engagement includes speaking at law enforcement workshops and advising on counterterrorism communication strategies.

Outside academia, he is an avid traveler with a focus on UNESCO World Heritage Sites, having visited 39 U.S. states and 30 countries. His personal interests include cooking, cinema, and outdoor activities like kayaking and bicycling.