About
Our lab supports advances in election science by collecting, analyzing, and sharing core data and findings. We also aim to build relationships with election officials and others to help apply new scientific research to the practice of democracy in the United States.
Data-Driven
We are committed to the improvement of scholarship and practice in election science through high-quality data gathering and analysis.
Scientific
In our own work and our collaborations with others, we adhere to the highest scientific standards of honesty, observability, and collegiality.
Nonpartisan
By grounding our work in data and the scientific method, our recommendations aim to improve democratic practice for everyone.
People
Our staff of social scientists, researchers, and students are committed to improving democracy in the United States by promoting the application of scientific principles to the understanding of election administration.
Core Team
Current Graduate Researchers
Current Undergraduate Researchers
MEDSL Alumni
Former Graduate Researchers
Former Undergraduate Researchers
Advisory Board
Lonna Rae Atkeson, LeRoy Collins Institute, Florida State University
Karen B. Bell, Executive Director, North Carolina State Board of Elections
Barry C. Burden, Department of Political Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Lori Edwards, Polk County, Florida Supervisor of Elections
Edward B. Foley, Moritz College of Law, The Ohio State University
Bernard L. Fraga, Department of Political Science, Emory University
Amanda M. Grandjean, Director of Elections, Ohio
Paul Gronke, Political Science Department, Reed College
Kathleen Hale, Department of Political Science, Auburn University
Kevin Kennedy, State of Wisconsin, Retired
Jan Leighley, Department of Government, American University
Dean C. Logan, Los Angeles County, California Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk
Amber McReynolds, Former Elections Director, National Expert and Consultant
Tammy Patrick, Chief Executive Officer for Programs, The Election Center (National Association of Election Officials)
Daron R. Shaw, Department of Government, The University of Texas at Austin
Michelle Tassinari, Director/Legal Counsel, Elections Division, Massachusetts
Christopher Thomas, Michigan Bureau of Elections Director, Retired
Michael B. Winn, Election Director, Harris County, Texas
Our Funders
Our Affiliate Institutions
Job Opportunities
We are currently looking to hire a research director. Find more information and apply through the MIT portal here.
If you are interested in an MIT Undergraduate Research Opportunity, please contact us.