The Riser Equitable Early Lifespan (REEL) Lab explores the complex dynamics between family income and child development.
The Riser Equitable Early Lifespan Lab strives to pave the way for more equitable policies and practices that support the well-being of children and families across diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The lab’s efforts are centered around creating a significant impact on both the academic field and the broader societal understanding of the factors that influence early lifespan development.
Research Goals
Analyze family income dynamics
Investigate the longitudinal impact of family income trajectories on the cognitive, social, and emotional development of children. This includes examining the effects of income volatility and poverty on developmental outcomes.
Evaluate public policy impact
Scrutinize the role of public policies in shaping child and family well-being, with a keen focus on how legislation and government interventions can support or hinder development.
Methodological innovation
Employ advanced quantitative research methods and innovative study designs to accurately capture and analyze the nuanced effects of socioeconomic factors on families. The lab leverages a variety of data sources, including secondary, administrative, and longitudinal datasets, to inform its research.
Interdisciplinary collaboration
Engage in interdisciplinary research and collaboration with scholars from various fields such as social work, psychology, economics, and education to enrich the understanding of developmental processes and outcomes.
Participate
Your participation matters! Join our research studies to contribute valuable insights into child development and family dynamics.
Priorities
Evidence-based policy and interventions
The ultimate goal of the lab’s research is to inform the development and implementation of evidence-based policy and interventions. By identifying effective strategies to support families and children, the lab aims to contribute to policy discussions at local, national, and international levels.
Community engagement and impact
Beyond academic research, the lab prioritizes the translation of research findings into practical solutions and strategies that can be implemented in communities to improve child and family outcomes.
Join our team
We are always looking for motivated individuals who are passionate about understanding and improving children’s developmental outcomes.
Lead Researcher
Quentin Riser
Dr. Quentin Riser’s work is driven by a commitment to improve the world — not just for his own children, but for all children. This dedication is rooted in a belief that through rigorous research, thoughtful policy analysis, and the application of evidence-based interventions, it’s possible to create a society where every child has the opportunity to thrive. His research endeavors are more than academic pursuits; they are personal missions to ensure that the future is brighter, more equitable, and filled with possibilities for every child. It’s this vision that fuels his daily efforts and defines the core of his professional ethos.
Research Assistants
EMMA POWERS
Lead Student Research Assistant
GENNA GARRIGAN
Student Research Assistant
AVA HAMMER
Student Research Assistant
ADRIAN JAUREGUI
Student Research Assistant
MAYA LESSER
Student Research Assistant
Grace Carpenter
Student Research Assistant
Zoë Bracken
Student Research Assistant
Makenna Menting
Student Research Assistant