Maine Science Podcast - Karyn Sporer, episode 103

Karyn is an Associate Professor and Chair of Sociology at the University of Maine. She

earned her Ph.D. in criminology and criminal justice at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and is an expert in qualitative and life history research methods, with a focus on hidden and marginalized populations. Her recent work examines violent extremism and terrorism prevention, emphasizing the experiences of family members of individuals involved in ideological extremism and targeted violence. Karyn's research is grounded in in-depth life history interviews with family members, allowing her to examine early warning signs, non-ideological risk factors, and how families and communities respond when they see someone mobilizing toward violence. Her work has informed policy and practice at the federal, state, and local levels, and she is a core member of Maine’s Threat Assessment Group, where she contributes research-based insights to prevention and early intervention efforts.

Karyn was one of this year’s 5 Minute Genius speakers at the 2026 Maine Science Festival.

This conversation was recorded in June 2026.