Tim Farley (Photo by Matt Lowry)We’re thrilled to announce that Tim Farley has been appointed the JREF’s latest research fellow, joining Karen Stollznow and Senior Fellow Dr. Steven Novella.

JREF research fellows are skeptical scholars, writers, and leaders who have been recognized by the JREF for their contribution to the skeptical movement. They contribute on a regular basis to Randi.org and produce a work of original skeptical research with the JREF’s support.

Tim Farley studied physics at Georgia Tech before getting involved in the software industry and specializing in computer security. He first became involved in the JREF by attending TAM 5 in 2007. Together with other Atlanta activists, he helped launch the Atlanta Skeptics organization, which has organized three Skepticamps, several charity Star Parties at Dragon*Con, and now an Atlanta-based Independent Investigations Group.

In 2008, with input from the JREF Forum, Farley created WhatsTheHarm.net, a web site that compiles information on the hundreds of thousands killed and injured by scams, pseudoscience, and alternative health claims. Since then, he’s also launched Skeptools.com, a site dedicated to developing advanced tools and techniques for use by skeptics in fighting the battle against misinformation online.

As a JREF research fellow, Farley will contribute data for an upcoming JREF iPhone app, lead the Advancing Skepticism Online workshop at TAM 2011, write for the Randi.org blog, and work on other projects that advance skepticism through new electronic media.