I am a prevention and translational scientist investigating how to improve the use of research in decision making and optimize investments in healthy development. This work sits at the intersection of health policy, behavioral science and public finance. My program of research is particularly motivated by a desire to increase the use of cost-effective, evidence-based preventive strategies to improve the lives of children and families. As Director of the Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center we use science to build a healthier and more just world for individuals, families, and communities. We believe in promoting human flourishing and preventing suffering. I also direct the Evidence-to-Impact Collaborative that is working to build the science of scientific impact and serving researchers here at Penn State and around the world.I teach courses and workshops on social policy and finance, research methods program evaluation, and developmental psychology and intervention.