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School of Computer Sciences

Tahir Khan

Tahir Khan

Associate Professor
Interim Director, Ï㽶ÊÓƵ Cybersecurity Center
Office: Stipes Hall 447J
Phone: (309) 298-1452
Email: TM-Khan@wiu.edu

Education

  • Ph.D. – George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
  • M.S. – George Washington University, Washington, D.C.

Professional Summary

Dr. Tahir M. Khan is an Associate Professor in the School of Computer Sciences at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ (Ï㽶ÊÓƵ) and currently serves as Interim Director of the Ï㽶ÊÓƵ Cybersecurity Center. He earned his Ph.D. from George Mason University and an M.S. from George Washington University.

He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in computer forensics and cybersecurity. As Interim Director, he leads initiatives to promote cybersecurity education and awareness within the university and the broader community, focusing on advancing best practices for protecting data and assets against emerging security threats.

He strongly supports collaborative research and has co-authored numerous publications with undergraduate and graduate students.

Teaching Pedagogy

Dr. Khan emphasizes experiential learning by integrating hands-on laboratory work into his courses to enhance student engagement and deepen conceptual understanding.

Research Interests

  • Cybersecurity
  • Computer Forensics
  • Privacy and Security
  • Artificial Intelligence

Teaching Interests

  • Computer Forensics
  • Computer Networking
  • Cybersecurity
  • File System Forensics
  • Intrusion Detection and Penetration Testing
  • System Administration
  • Linux/Unix Operating Systems

Technical and Leadership Expertise

  • Extensive experience working with diverse populations, including domestic and international students, non-traditional learners, students with disabilities, and underrepresented groups.
  • Strong leadership in faculty hiring, mentoring, and supervising adjunct and tenure-track faculty.
  • Proven ability to advise and co-advise graduate students and supervise undergraduate capstone projects and graduate dissertations.
  • Skilled in using Learning Management Systems (LMS) for online instruction, assessment, and content management.
  • Active participation in search committees, recruitment events, and alumni engagement, guiding students toward successful careers in IT and cybersecurity.
  • Demonstrated expertise in organizing cybersecurity competitions, public speaking at conferences, and leading outreach initiatives.
  • Established record of collaboration with peers, maintaining strong academic networks, and promoting diversity and inclusion.