I am an Assistant Profesor in Political Science at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). I completed my Ph.D. in Political Science at Georgia State University. I hold an M.S. in Middle East Studies from Middle East Technical University and B.A. in Political Science and International Relations from Bogazici University.

My research examines the dynamics and actors of civil wars, with a particular emphasis on the Middle East region. My book project, Choosing the Lesser Evil: Tribal Alignments in Civil Wars, investigates how threat perception shapes tribal alignments and side-switching during civil wars, drawing primarily on Iraqi tribes. The project is based on extensive fieldwork in Iraq and Jordan in 2023, which includes original, in-depth interviews with Iraqi Sunni tribal leaders, tribespeople, and professionals. Details can be found here.

My work has received support by the Craigie International Security Studies, the APSA Centennial Center Research Grant, the International Studies Association (ISA) Dissertation Fellowship, as well as the Provost's Fellowship and Study Abroad Scholarship Award from GSU.

In addition to academic research, I have over five years of experience in the think-tank sector. I am a co-founder of FeniksPolitik, where I also publish OP-EDs. Previously, I worked as a researcher at the International Strategic Research Organization (USAK) in Ankara. 

Last but certainly not least, I take great pride in being the mother of Mavi, who has brought immense joy and hope to my life, including my academic journey. 

Please find my CV here. And email me at bozguler[at]umbc[dot]edu.