Dr. Karen Coombs
Cybersecurity Researcher | Professor | AI Governance and Intelligent Systems Scholar
Researching the security risks of emerging data infrastructures, including DNA data storage and AI-enabled systems.
My work bridges cybersecurity research, intelligent system design, and industry practice.
PhD in Information Technology specializing in cybersecurity risks in DNA data storage systems.
Professor teaching cybersecurity, systems analysis, governance, and technology strategy across three universities.
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Technology leader advancing software quality, AI governance, and responsible adoption.
Expertise
Cybersecurity
Research focused on vulnerabilities and threat models in emerging data infrastructures, particularly DNA data storage systems.
AI Systems
Applying artificial intelligence to software quality, system governance, and responsible technology adoption.
Teaching
Professor teaching cybersecurity, systems analysis, governance, and technology strategy across multiple universities.
Research
Research exploring cybersecurity risks in emerging data infrastructures, with a focus on DNA data storage systems and intelligent technologies.
Publication
Notable Achievements
Scholarly Works
Academic Research
Perspectives of Cybersecurity Risks in DNA Data Storage Environment
Publications
Books
Love Yourself and Keep Going: A Journey Through Resilience, Cybersecurity, and DNA Data Storage
Love Yourself and Keep Going: The Transformation to Greatness
Research Citations
Research from Dr. Karen Coombs' work on cybersecurity risks in DNA data storage has been cited in the following academic publications:
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David, J. (2024).
Revolutionizing Biomedical Engineering: AI-Driven Medical Devices in Cloud-Based Healthcare Systems
Available at:
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Hashmi, T. H., Tang, G., Liu, X., & Zhang, Z. (2025).
Multi-dimensional identity construction and continuous authentication methods, A survey. Journal of Networking and Network Applications.
Available at:
Speaking
Speaking Engagement
Win10X Women in Technology Leadership Speaker Series
Keynote: The Unscripted Journey to Great Leadership
Curriculum Vitae
PhD
Information Technology
Capella University
Doctorate in Information Technology focused on cybersecurity, specifically addressing the vulnerabilities of DNA data storage systems
MBA
Management
Nova Southeastern University
Master of Business Administration with a specialization Management
BS
Computer Information Systems
Florida Gulf Coast University
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems
Teaching
Academic Positions
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The University of Arizona Global Campus
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Columbia Southern University
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College of Southern Nevada
Currently a professor, engaging with students at three universities while leading research initiatives in cybersecurity and AI systems.
Systems Analysis & Design | Information Security & Governance | Critical Infrastructure Protection in Cyber Security | Digital Forensics Applications | Cyber Warfare and Application | Vulnerability Assessment and Incident Response | Management Information Systems | New Product Development and Innovation Strategies | Strategic Technology Planning for Organizations
Research
Ongoing Projects
Current Research Focus
• Cybersecurity vulnerabilities in DNA data storage systems
• Bio cybersecurity and emerging data infrastructures
• Security implications of AI driven systems
• Intelligent system governance
Forthcoming Textbook
Modern Systems Analysis and Design: Building Intelligent and Ethical Systems
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Kendall Hunt Publishing | Fall 2026
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Modern Systems Analysis and Design: Building Intelligent and Ethical Systems is a comprehensive textbook for students and practitioners navigating the evolving intersection of systems analysis, artificial intelligence, and ethical technology design. Drawing on more than two decades of industry practice and current research in AI governance, the book integrates traditional systems analysis methodologies with the emerging realities of AI-enabled systems, responsible system design, and governance frameworks such as NIST AI RMF, OECD AI Principles, ISO/IEC 42001, and the EU AI Act. The text is designed for use in undergraduate and graduate information systems, software engineering, and AI ethics courses, and is suitable for professionals seeking a structured introduction to building systems that are both technically sound and ethically defensible.
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The manuscript has cleared editorial review and is currently in production. Release scheduled for Fall 2026.