About 

Making Research Work in the Real World

For more than ten years, I've worked at the intersection of rigorous social science and practical public safety policy—first inside government, then in nonprofits, and now as an independent consultant through Theory to Practice.

​

The Work

In NYC government, I built award-winning technologies that helped communities and law enforcement work together to address hate crimes and bias incidents. These weren't just data systems—they were tools designed to strengthen community relationships while providing the evidence base for better policies.

​

In the nonprofit sector, I've taken on multiple roles: leading applied research initiatives, serving in C-suite positions, building advanced data products, and scaling teams. A significant part of this work has been on the funding side—I've helped organizations secure millions of dollars for research and managed complex relationships with philanthropic partners.

​

I also work to ensure research actually reaches the people who can use it. I've testified before state legislatures across the country, translating academic findings into recommendations that policymakers can act on. My research has been published in journals like the Annual Review of Criminology and the American Economic Association, and my commentary has been cited in The New Yorker, The Guardian, USA Today, and the Los Angeles Times.

​

What I Bring to Partners

When you work with me, you're getting someone who:

• Understands both the technical rigor of research and the practical constraints of implementation

• Has built and led teams, so I know what it takes to scale data systems and research operations

• Can navigate complex stakeholder relationships, from community partners to executive leadership to funders

• Knows how to translate research into policy recommendations that resonate with decision-makers

• Has a track record of securing funding and managing large research initiatives

​

Credentials

I'm an elected member of the Council on Criminal Justice and hold a PhD in sociology from the University of Oxford, where my research focused on evidence-based approaches to public safety. I also have a certificate in executive management from UCLA's Anderson School of Management. 

​

Let's Work Together

I partner with government agencies, nonprofits, and philanthropic organizations that are committed to evidence-based approaches but need support in translating research into action. Whether you're looking to build research capacity, develop data systems, secure funding for new initiatives, or make sense of complex evidence, I can help.