Lex L. Merrill

Dr. Lex L. Merrill, Ph.D., is a seasoned psychologist, educator, and military research veteran with over three decades of experience in psychological assessment, research design, and behavioral sciences. Currently serving as Associate Professor at Allegany College of Maryland, Dr. Merrill brings a distinguished career shaped by deep expertise in clinical health psychology, military personnel studies, interpersonal violence, and psychological resilience. A graduate of Alliant International University, Dr. Merrill earned both his M.A. and Ph.D. in Psychology, building a foundation that supported a robust academic and research-focused trajectory. His professional journey includes over two decades as a Research Psychologist with the Naval Health Research Center, where he played key roles as Principal Investigator and Director of Interpersonal Violence Research. He contributed significantly to research targeting stress, trauma, and violence within military contexts, earning nine medals from the U.S. Navy and fifteen commendations in federal civil service, including the prestigious Walter Wilkins Award for Excellence in Biomedical Research. Dr. Merrill’s teaching repertoire spans Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Sociology, and Human Growth and Development. As a faculty member since 2014 at Allegany College of Maryland, he is recognized for his engaging, student-centered approach and mentorship. His leadership is also evident through his role as CEO of Merrill Consulting Corporation, where he consults on life sciences research, focusing on interpersonal violence and mental health innovation. Currently, Dr. Merrill is Principal Investigator for “The Effect of an Educational Intervention on Voting & Civic Engagement,” funded by the Student Voting Network. He presented preliminary findings at the State of the Vote Workshop 2024 in Chicago. This initiative reflects his commitment to civic engagement and behavioral change through evidence-based interventions. He has published more than 50 peer-reviewed articles, with ten more in process or under review, and has secured over $12 million in research funding. His editorial and review work spans high-impact journals, including Military Psychology, Journal of Clinical and Consulting Psychology (JCCP), Lancet, International Journal of Stress Management, and Journal of Traumatic Stress. He also serves as Associate Editor for the International Journal of Stress Management. Beyond academia and research, Dr. Merrill is deeply embedded in community service and professional associations. His memberships include the American Psychological Association, Association for Psychological Science, International Stress Management Association, and the Society for the Teaching of Psychology. He also contributes locally as a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission and Shade Tree Commission in Cumberland, Maryland. His dedication to service is matched by volunteer work with Special Olympics, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, the Salvation Army, and various cancer fundraising initiatives. Through his expansive and impactful career, Dr. Merrill continues to blend scholarship with civic duty, contributing to the betterment of individual lives and public institutions alike.