Karyn Sporer

Karyn Sporer, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor and Chair of Sociology at the University of Maine. She earned her Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, her M.S. in Criminal Justice from Northeastern University, and her B.A. from Saint Michael’s College.

Dr. Sporer is an expert in qualitative methods and life history interviewing, with a focus on hidden and marginalized populations. Her research examines violence, victimization, and prevention, with particular emphasis on violent extremism, terrorism, family violence, mental illness and violence, and drug policy.

Her recent work explores violent extremism and targeted violence prevention, centering on the experiences of family members of individuals involved in ideological extremism. Funded by the Department of Homeland Security, her work has informed policy and practice at the federal, state, and local levels. She is a core member of Maine’s Threat Assessment Group, where she contributes research-based insights to prevention and early intervention efforts.

In addition to her work on violence and extremism, Dr. Sporer has conducted research on substance use disorder and opioid policy in Maine, collaborating with policymakers and community stakeholders to examine decriminalization and harm reduction strategies.

Dr. Sporer’s research has secured over $553,000 in competitive funding since 2020 and has resulted in numerous peer-reviewed publications, research briefs, and public scholarship. Her work has appeared in journals such as Studies in Conflict & Terrrorism, Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency, Journal of Interpersonal Violence, and Journal of Family Violence. 

A dedicated educator and mentor, Dr. Sporer teaches courses in criminology, criminal justice, sociology. She actively involves undergraduate students in research, providing hands-on training in qualitative methods. In recognition of her teaching and advising, she received the 2021 CLAS Outstanding Teacher/Advisor Award.