RESEARCH
Cutting-edge research leads to innovation and impact
Research at SP2 is led by renowned faculty who are highly respected practitioners, educators, and mentors. Together with a worldwide network of global collaborators, they are advancing knowledge that drives social good and social innovation in a range of critical areas such as homelessness, health, philanthropy, and more.
Research Areas
Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Inclusive Technology
Leveraging artificial intelligence, data science and ethical technology to shape social policy and practice.
CHILDREN, WOMEN & FAMILY WELL-BEING
A focus on critical reform to the child welfare system, improving the lives of children and women who are victims of abuse, and advocating for policy and practice reform
Committed to addressing climate justice through mitigation, anticipation, adaptation, and community action
Data-Driven Policy Analysis & Evidence-Based Practice
Using administrative data, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis to inform the future of social innovation and social policy
Expertise in income inequality, economic mobility, universal basic income, and the labor market impact of public policies
Health Equity, Mental Health & Aging
Understanding diverse social and environmental factors affecting health and well-being within underserved populations, geriatric patients, individuals with mental illness, and those at elevated risk for disease
Identity, Immigration & Racism
Understanding how personal, cultural, and social factors impact important issues concerning inclusion, economic injustices, and policy within marginalized communities
Mass Incarceration, Homelessness & Substance Use
Applied research, psychosocial services, and person-centered approaches to better understand how to recover and provide service to vulnerable populations
Social Innovation, Philanthropy & Nonprofit Management
Educating individuals on the economics of giving through grantmaking strategies, identifying donors, social entrepreneurship, and the resulting social impact
Research Centers & Projects
Students, faculty, and collaborators connect in SP2’s research centers, special projects, and initiatives to further groundbreaking scholarship.
Events
04/01
Brown Bag Lunch Series – Chiako Hung
SP2 Faculty present the Brown Bag Lunch series! Bring your lunch & join the informal conversation to learn what interests your colleagues and professors at SP2. Faculty members will present […]
Events
04/08
MSSP/NPL Lunch & Learn — Intergenerational Collaboration to Promote Multilateralism in Evolving International Policy and Project Landscape
The Workshop on “Intergenerational Collaboration to Promote Multilateralism in Evolving International Policy and Project Landscape” aims to discuss the evolving landscape and potential futures of international development shaped by UN80 […]
Events
04/09
Take Back the Night 2026
Abuse and Sexual Assault Prevention (ASAP) at Penn is hosting Take Back the Night – an international movement and protest against sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and all other […]
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