Erika Ricci

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I am a Ph.D. Candidate in Security Studies and Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) at the University of Central Florida’s School of Politics, Security, and International Affairs (SPSIA). My research interests focus on political violence and terrorism, as well as the political psychology of organizational dynamics and gender roles.

Currently, I am working on a dissertation that incorporates these different topics based on the case study of the Red Brigades in Italy. This research relies on archival material and interviews based on ongoing fieldwork in Italy. I integrate fine-grained qualitative data with advanced statistical and network analytic methods. I am also presenting my research at International Studies Association (ISA) and Midwest Political Science Association annual conferences (2022). To find out more, please check my research tab.

Before coming to UCF I obtained my MA in European and International Policies at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan. I then gained professional experience as Junior Analyst for the European Water Regulators Association (WAREG) and as Visiting Research Assistance in one of the leading think tank in New Delhi, the Delhi Policy Group. Based on this work, I published two articles linked here and here.

I combine passion and commitment together with the need for new stimuli. These are essential tools that help me fulfill academic challenges, even when they are difficult and new. Yet, they are not enough: steadiness, perseverance, and hard work are necessary to excel. I developed such skills throughout my whole life as an élite artistic gymnastics and these characteristics make me a very organized and determined Ph.D. Candidate researcher eager to excel.