Barbara Endicott-Popovsky

Dr. Barbara Endicott-Popovsky has established herself as a prominent figure in cybersecurity education and research as the Executive Director of the Center for Information Assurance and Cybersecurity at the University of Washington. Her distinguished career began in IT, where she witnessed early cybersecurity threats that sparked her dedication to the field. As a Principal Research Scientist at the Applied Physics Lab and affiliate professor at UW Bothell's Department of Computer Science and Systems, she has shaped cybersecurity curriculum and programs to address the critical shortage of cybersecurity professionals. Her expertise has earned her appointments to significant positions, including the National Governors Association cybersecurity policy team and co-investigator of a $2 million National Security Agency grant focusing on smart grid security. She has contributed substantially to developing cybersecurity education standards through NSA/DHS designated Centers of Academic Excellence, while her research interests encompass cybersecurity, information assurance, digital forensics, and critical infrastructure protection. Her impact extends beyond academia through extensive work with government organizations, including spearheading initiatives to strengthen state cybersecurity resilience and develop the cybersecurity workforce. As an educator and thought leader, she has been instrumental in creating innovative programs like the UW Certificate in Cybersecurity Risk Management, addressing the crucial need for qualified professionals in a field with nearly half a million vacant positions nationwide.