Courtney Crooks

Dr. Courtney Crooks is a Principal Research Scientist at Georgia Tech Research Institute and serves as Adjunct Assistant Professor in the School of Cybersecurity and Privacy within the College of Computing at Georgia Institute of Technology, with additional adjunct appointments at Emory University School of Medicine.

Education background includes:

• PhD in Cognitive Psychology, University of Georgia
• MSc in Aeronautical Science (Aviation Human Factors), Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
• PhD in Clinical Psychology (Forensic Concentration), Fielding Graduate University
• Postdoctoral Residency in Health Services Psychology, Emory University
• Cybersecurity Certificate, Georgia Tech Professional Education
• Core Program, Emory University Psychoanalytic Institute
• Faculty Fellowship, Georgia Tech Sam Nunn Security Program

Research investigates human-technology interaction with focus on forensic cyberpsychology, behavioral analysis in cybersecurity contexts, and human-centered design of AI systems. Specializations include human-machine teaming dynamics, cognitive security vulnerabilities, analysis of malign influence operations, and coercive control mechanisms in digital environments.

Active grants and projects:

• Dependable Energy Systems (DENSE), Horizon Europe MSCA ITN (2024-2027, PI)
• Modern methods for discrete event handling in power system dynamic simulations (2021-2025, PI)
• Creating Resilient Sustainable Microgrids through Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems, EPSRC GCRF (Co-I)
• Data-driven anomaly detection techniques in electric power systems (2018-2021, PI)

Leads research initiatives at GTRI focused on cybersecurity psychology and human-AI interaction. Affiliations include the Ethics, Technology, and Human Interaction Center (ETHICx) and collaborative projects across Georgia Tech and Emory University.