Lucy Simko

Lucy Simko is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Barnard College, Columbia University. She holds a PhD in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Washington (2022), advised by Tadayoshi Kohno, and previously served as a postdoctoral researcher at George Washington University under Adam Aviv and Yasemin Acar.

Research Focus: Simko's work centers on understanding how marginalized and under-served populations interact with computer security and privacy mechanisms. Her research combines qualitative methods to explore vulnerability through socio-ecological frameworks, including studies on geopolitical conflict, disaster response, and migration. She emphasizes actionable solutions that address systemic inequities in technology access and design.

Teaching: Simko teaches advanced courses in usable security (e.g., Building Usable Security and Usable Security and Privacy), focusing on hands-on design and ethical considerations. She actively mentors Barnard and Columbia undergraduate/masters students in research projects, prioritizing funded graduate students.

Current Projects: Ongoing research includes studies on digital security among US immigrants, online proctoring evasion strategies, and privacy ecosystems in low-resource communities. She co-directs the Barnard Usable Security lab and collaborates with institutions globally to address security challenges faced by vulnerable groups.

Grants & Funding: Her work is supported by projects like the NSF SaTC grant on privacy ecosystems for marginalized populations. She emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration in her projects, often involving sociologists, policymakers, and community advocates.