Timothy H. Lacey

Dr. Timothy H. Lacey is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He contributes to graduate-level education and research in cybersecurity, digital forensics, and artificial intelligence applications in cyber defense.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Air Force Institute of Technology, 2010
• M.S. in Computer Systems, Air Force Institute of Technology, 2000
• B.S. in Computer Science and Management/Computer Information Systems, Park College, 1991

Dr. Lacey's research focuses on cybersecurity, particularly in reputation-based security for mobile networks (MANETs), cyber defense exercises (CDX), and qualia-based modeling of cyberspace awareness. His work bridges theoretical AI and practical military cybersecurity applications. He has extensively studied how cyber competitions shape curriculum and enhance graduate education in digital forensics and information assurance.

The recent publications reflect a strong trend in integrating artificial intelligence and cognitive models into cybersecurity, especially for situational awareness and intrusion detection. His work also emphasizes real-world training through NSA-sponsored Cyber Defense Exercises, influencing pedagogical strategies in military and academic settings.

Scientific Awards:

• No awards explicitly mentioned in the provided text.

Dr. Lacey has played a significant role in advising and shaping cybersecurity curricula, particularly through the integration of hands-on cyber defense exercises. While no specific grants are listed, his repeated collaboration with agencies like the NSA and DC3 suggests involvement in funded educational and research initiatives. He has contributed to multiple publications on curriculum development, indicating leadership in pedagogical innovation within information assurance.

Though no formal lab or team is named, Dr. Lacey is part of a collaborative research group at AFIT, frequently publishing with colleagues such as R. F. Mills, R. A. Raines, S. K. Rogers, and B. E. Mullins. Their work centers on cyber operations, AI-driven security, and military cybersecurity education, likely operating within AFIT’s cybersecurity or digital forensics research units.