At the ISSR, we are committed to advancing knowledge and informing policy through high-impact interdisciplinary research that addresses critical societal challenges. Our work integrates social science methodologies and cutting-edge technologies to create real-world solutions that improve lives.
ISSR Primarily Concentrates on Two Domains:
Health & Well-Being Across the Lifespan
We explore the social, economic, and environmental factors that shape health outcomes from infancy to old age. Our research addresses:
- Reproductive health and ethics.
- Occupational health and safety, focusing on high-risk professions.
- Veteran well-being and justice involvement, helping reintegrate veterans into society.
Security, Safety & Technological Innovation
ISSR investigates the intersection of technology and social systems to enhance safety and resilience in communities. Key areas include:
- Transportation safety & injury prevention, using state-of-the-art driving simulators.
- Human-autonomy interaction, studying AI and automation in military and civilian settings.
- Global conflict research, leveraging AI to track and analyze international disputes.
Featured Research Projects
Gender, Stereotypes, and Career Pathways
Dr. Joan Barth’s research explores how gender stereotypes and early experiences shape career interests. Projects examine implicit STEM biases in women, how social goals influence teens’ occupational choices, and links between childhood play and adult thinking styles tied to scientific careers.
Eggonomics: Examining Ethics in Reproductive Health
Dr. Diane Tober’s research examines the egg donation industry, focusing on ethical, economic, and social factors influencing reproductive decision-making.
The TRIP Lab: Innovating Road Safety & Injury Prevention
ISSR’s Translational Research for Injury Prevention (TRIP) Lab researches distracted driving, post-concussion recovery, and AI in transportation safety.
BRAVO-VETS: Supporting Veterans in the Justice System
A pioneering initiative providing screening, resources, and interventions to veterans with traumatic brain injuries and mental health challenges.
International Conflict Database: AI-Powered Global Research
Led by Dr. Doug Gibler, this project compiles and analyzes international conflict data to inform global policy decisions.
Toward a Large-Scale Source of Individual-Level Data for Studying Correctional Staff
Led by Jacob Harris and Benjamin Goehring this project plans to collect individual data on correctional officers so researchers can track relevant policy reforms. More details coming soon.
Let’s Collaborate On The Next Big Idea