Marcelo M. Leal

Marcelo M. Leal is an Assistant Professor of Cyber Security, Technology, and Policy at the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences at the University of Texas at Dallas. His work bridges international relations and public policy to explore the politics of cybersecurity policymaking, focusing on public opinion, cyber attribution, and international security dynamics.

• Ph.D. in Political Science (2024), University of Massachusetts Amherst
• M.A. in Political Science (2015), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil)
• B.A. in History (2011), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil)

His research employs survey experiments and computer-assisted text analysis to analyze how public opinion shapes cybersecurity decisions, particularly in foreign policy, international security, and emerging technologies. Recent work includes experimental studies on zero-day vulnerabilities, attribution claims, and retribution strategies in cyberspace.

The trends in his publications highlight an emphasis on public perception of cybersecurity, ethical implications of cyber policies, and behavioral analysis of responses to cyberattacks. His studies often intersect with political psychology and policy evaluation.