Gina Scott Ligon

Dr. Gina Scott Ligon is the Jack and Stephanie Koraleski Professor of Collaboration Science and Professor of Management at the University of Nebraska Omaha's College of Business Administration. She holds a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the University of Oklahoma. Her research focuses on leadership, innovation, and ideological organizations, particularly in contexts involving violent extremism. She directs the National Counterterrorism, Innovation, Technology, and Education (NCITE) Center, a Department of Homeland Security Center of Excellence.

Dr. Ligon's work examines organizational structures in non-normative groups, talent development, and the application of psychological principles to counterterrorism. She has authored over 70 peer-reviewed publications and serves as a leader in interdisciplinary security research. Awards include the 2020 Award for Distinguished Research or Creative Activity for her contributions to the field.

• Education: Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (University of Oklahoma, 2004)
• Previous Affiliation: Villanova University (Graduate Programs in Human Resource Development)
• Laboratory: Jack and Stephanie Koraleski Commerce and Applied Behavior Lab
• Key Contributions: Over 70 journal articles/book chapters on terrorism, leadership, and organizational innovation

Her recent research emphasizes malevolent innovation in terrorism, cybersecurity threats, and the psychological mechanisms driving extremist behavior. She collaborates internationally to develop counterterrorism strategies through behavioral science insights.