Laura leads our research and data analysis efforts. Her team researches how the media reports on the issues we work on, how people think about those issues, and how advocates can communicate most effectively about them. Laura also manages ReThink’s impact tracking and analytics.
Laura is a versatile researcher and data scientist, with experience in a range of quantitative and qualitative methods, and expertise in analytical programming and natural language processing. Laura is passionate about using programming and data science tools to develop innovative ways to collect, analyze and manage data.
Laura has a strong background in using data and research to inform strategic communications and public policy. Prior to joining ReThink in 2019, Laura spent seven years at Berkeley Media Studies Group analyzing media coverage of public health issues, and helping public health advocates use the media to advance public health policy. She has also worked on research and data analysis at the United States Census Bureau, the California Department of Public Health, and the UC Berkeley Labor Occupational Health Program.
Laura studied sociology at Pomona College, earned a master’s degree in public health at UC Berkeley, and holds a certificate in Applied Data Science from the University of Michigan. She worked in public health in Ecuador for several years and is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese.
In her free time, Laura enjoys playing with her two cats, exploring her home state of California, learning languages, and going for hikes in the Berkeley hills.
