Connor's research focuses on diaspora mobilization, transnational advocacy, and global authoritarianism. His dissertation examines host state responses to transnational repression, or the repression of diasporas by origin states across international borders. Connor's work has been published in the Journal of Peace Research and The Washington Post's "Monkey Cage." Prior to coming to UMD, Connor spent several years in Washington, DC working for defense and national security contractors. He has traveled extensively in the Middle East and South Asia.