Laura Michaelson has a diverse work experience spanning from 2006 to the present. Laura'smost recent position is as a Senior Researcher at the American Institutes for Research, where they specialize in quantitative analysis and studying the effects of programs and policies in youth development, education, and criminology. In this role, they conduct meta-analyses, develops methods to improve them, and designs products to make them more accessible for researchers and lay audiences.
Prior to their current position, Laura worked as a Research Associate at the University of Colorado Boulder from 2018 to 2019. There, they conducted basic and applied research in the areas of youth development policy and practice. Laura also served as a senior reviewer with the Blueprints for Healthy Youth Development research registry, supporting the development and application of evidence standards.
Laura's academic background includes completing a dual PhD program in Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Science at the University of Colorado Boulder from 2011 to 2017. During this time, they conducted research and taught in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience and the Institute of Behavioral Science.
Before pursuing their PhD, Laura gained experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania from 2009 to 2011. Laura also worked as an Undergraduate Research Assistant at the Cognitive Development Center at the University of Colorado Boulder in 2008.
Laura's early work experience includes roles as a Classroom Aide at The Rehab School in 2007, a Speech Therapy Intern at the Anderson Center for Autism in 2006, and a Research Assistant at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research in 2006.
Overall, Laura Michaelson's work experience demonstrates their expertise in conducting research, particularly in the areas of youth development, education, and criminology. Laura has a strong background in quantitative analysis and has contributed to the development and application of evidence standards in their field.
Laura Michaelson completed their education chronologically as follows: Laura obtained their high school diploma from Moorestown Friends School from 2001 to 2005. Then, they pursued a Bachelor of Arts (BA) with Honors in Cognitive Science from Vassar College from 2005 to 2009. Finally, they earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Colorado Boulder from 2011 to 2017.
October, 2019 - present