Policy Impact By Area

Whether it's driving groundbreaking research, speaking on expert panels, testifying before Congress and other government bodies, elevating the use of technology in the public policy sphere, testing new ideas and programs, or sharing perspectives in the media, Heinz College's cross-disciplinary thought leaders are out in front on the most pressing issues of our time.

From health care and trade to criminal justice and national security, there is no shortage of consequential policy debates in the United States and abroad. Heinz College confronts such complex problems with novel approaches and innovative methodologies guided by evidence.

Heinz College doesn't just participate in these conversations. We lead them, shift them, and shape them.

Jump to a Policy Area:

AI & the SOCIETAL IMPACTS OF TECHNOLOGY

Policy and technology have historically been separate domains, but more and more the lines between the two—and the demands they place on each other—are blurring. From the future of work to algorithmic bias, technology has the potential to reshape our society, and our experts are visionaries who advise policymakers and craft solutions that will ensure technology has broad and inclusive social benefits. Learn how Heinz College is leading the way in AI policy.

Key Experts: Ramayya Krishnan, Leman Akoglu, Lee Branstetter, Rayid Ghani, Christopher Goranson, Kristen Kurland, Anand Rao, Rachel Dzombak, David Steier, Rahul Telang

CRIME & DRUG POLICY

Heinz College is at the forefront of research in criminal justice including recidivism, policing, sentencing and incarceration, gun violence, the impacts of algorithmic bias in criminal justice, and evidence-based recommendations for criminal justice reform; key areas of drug policy research include studies of new cannabis markets, substance abuse, and the reduction/prevention of opioid deaths.

Key Experts: Al Blumstein, Jonathan Caulkins, Daniel Nagin

CYBERSECURITY & DATA PRIVACY

As the world becomes more connected and data is both generated and collected at unprecedented rates, the need for policy solutions in cybersecurity and privacy have grown tremendously. Key areas of research and influence include risk management, election security, and privacy economics.

Key Experts: Alessandro Acquisti, Rahul Telang, Gregory Touhill, Randall Trzeciak

DIGITAL & CONSUMER BEHAVIOR

Many industries have been turned upside down by technology and big data, which has caused the rise of new business models as well as complex consumer behaviors and legal concerns. Our experts inform policymakers and industry leaders alike on how 21^st century innovations like social media and digital streaming impact economics, politics, and culture.

Key Experts: Avinash Collis, Pedro Ferreira, Beibei Li, Ananya Sen, Michael D. Smith, Rahul Telang

Energy, Environment & SUSTAINABILITY

Rapid social and political changes have placed increasing demands on institutions to be agents of equity. Our energy experts, environmental economists, and sustainability leaders dig deep into the effects of climate change, regulations, and adoption of the UN Sustainable Development Goals on crucial areas like health; clean air, water and soil; child development; equality and justice; and the global economy.

Key Experts: Karen Clay, Akshaya Jha, Sarah Mendelson

Health care

Our faculty push the boundaries of what's possible in health care, whether its groundbreaking analysis of existing and emerging health care markets and models, or opening new frontiers in health care powered by technology.

Key Experts: George Chen, Martin Gaynor, Amelia Haviland, Rema Padman, Lowell Taylor, Holly Wiberg

LABOR Economics, Trade & Immigration

^{Photo: Peterson Institute/Jeremey Tripp}

At the intersection of technology and society, the areas of economics, trade, and immigration face complex and evolving questions. Topics of research include the future of work—including economic disruption and labor displacement fueled by automation and AI—the effects of immigration on local economies, the rise of China as an economic power, and the impact of trade wars, past and current.

Key Experts: Lee Branstetter, Andrew Garin, Felix Koenig, Brian Kovak, Lowell Taylor

Managing the ARTS

At the crossroads of creativity, technology, and strategy, arts management faculty explore how cultural institutions thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Our faculty examine the leadership, economics, and policy dimensions of the arts—investigating topics like audience engagement, nonprofit governance, digital innovation, and sustainable funding models. Their work empowers leaders, artists, organizations, and communities to navigate change and amplify impact through the arts.

Key Experts: Brett Ashley Crawford, Daniel Green

Organization & Management

In a world of rapid change and complex institutions, understanding how organizations function—and how they can adapt—is more critical than ever. Our faculty explore the dynamics of leadership, decision-making, innovation, and organizational design across sectors. From managing digital transformation and hybrid workforces to fostering inclusive cultures and resilient systems, their research helps shape the future of effective, ethical, and agile organizations.

Key Experts: David Krackhardt, Chris Labash, David Lassman, Anna Mayo, Stacy Rosenberg, Denise Rousseau

URBAN POLICY & SMART CITIES

^{Photo: Brookings Institution/Paul Morigi}

One of the most profound changes in the Fourth Industrial Revolution will be the coming online of smart cities and communities across the globe, which will create new possibilities for citizen engagement, public safety, economic growth, and quality of life. Heinz College is a global leader in advancing smart cities research and policy.

Key Experts: Mark Kamlet, Karen Lightman, Sean Qian, Raj Rajkumar

COVID-19 RESPONSE & RECOVERY

Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, Heinz College has advised government and public health leaders at all levels with evidence-based strategies and policy recommendations. Our faculty's interdisciplinary expertise and innovative approaches have proved critical in responding to the economic, health, and political crises posed by COVID-19.

Key Experts: Ramayya Krishnan, Scott Andes, Lee Branstetter, Jonathan Caulkins, Karen Clay, Martin Gaynor, Rayid Ghani, Beibei Li, Daniel Nagin, Rema Padman, Peter Zhang

POLICY PROPOSALS, WHITE PAPERS, and Reports FROM STUDENTS

Our students work alongside leading faculty researchers to explore critical policy questions and devise evidence-based, implementable solutions. Research projects are completed via independent study or in courses designed to promote policy analysis and research. Students are also encouraged to participate in student-run policy publications and initiatives, including the Heinz Journal and Heinz Radio.

Recent ACtivity, Policy Proposals, PAPERs, and REPORTS:

ENGAGING WITH LEADERS AT EVERY LEVEL

Our students and faculty regularly have meaningful engagements with leaders from the City of Pittsburgh, local and county agencies, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, national politicians including U.S. Representatives Mike Doyle (PA-18) and Conor Lamb (PA-17), and distinguished guest speakers and lecturers.

A PRESENCE ON CAPITOL HILL

Our faculty and alumni are frequently called to testify before Congress. Recent appearances include: