Welcome!
I am an Associate Director and the Deputy Director for Research at the University of Oklahoma’s Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (IPPRA) and an Associate Professor of Public Policy in the Department of Political Science.
Research
My research examines how people and institutions perceive, communicate, and respond to risk in science- and technology-intensive policy areas. This includes work on weather forecasting, energy innovation, environmental governance, and security policy. Across these areas, I study how scientific information is produced, shared, and interpreted—and how collaboration between researchers and practitioners can improve these processes.
As a research leader, I work closely with federal agencies, national laboratories, and academic partners to design and direct large, collaborative projects that bridge science and policy. Together, we have advanced understanding in risk communication, public policy, and decision sciences, while developing tools and guidance that support policymakers and practitioners.
Our work has been published in leading outlets such as Policy Studies Journal, Risk Analysis, Public Administration Review, Nature Climate Change, and the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society.
Beyond academic publishing, I am committed to making research accessible and useful. Through open-source dashboards, public datasets, and practitioner-focused reports, I work to make my research more actionable and relevant to the people and institutions it serves.
I always welcome questions, feedback, and ideas about how to improve this work—so please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Teaching and Mentorship
My teaching focuses on helping students connect theory, methods, and practice in public policy. I work to ensure that policy education provides a strong conceptual foundation along with the analytical and practical tools needed to navigate complex, data-rich environments.
I have taught courses ranging from introductions to the policy process to advanced methods seminars in data visualization and survey research. Across these settings, I emphasize rigor, clarity, and curiosity while creating space for applied learning. My goal is for students to leave the classroom with tools they can use—whether in their own research or in professional practice.
I view teaching and mentorship as collaborative processes that build confidence, foster creativity, and strengthen the connection between research and practice. My approach draws on lessons from interdisciplinary collaborations with government agencies, national laboratories, and academic partners, helping me translate complex ideas into real-world examples that resonate with students.
I strive to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment where students can engage directly with policy questions, learn from one another, and connect evidence to decision-making in meaningful ways.
I am always excited to connect with students, emerging scholars, and policymakers. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to start a conversation.