My research interests focus on education in crisis and forced migration contexts, with a particular emphasis on supporting refugee children, youth, and educators. I explore the intersection of education and psychosocial support, using innovative approaches such as arts-based interventions and play-based learning to enhance both educational outcomes and community resilience. A significant aspect of my work involves examining the challenges faced by displaced populations in accessing quality education, as well as identifying strategies to bridge gaps between policy and practice.

Additionally, I investigate the professional development and well-being of teachers in crisis settings, exploring effective models of teacher support, compensation, and leadership. My research also delves into the specific educational needs of resettled refugees and the impact of emergency contexts on educational systems, with a focus on creating more sustainable, inclusive, and responsive educational frameworks. Overall, my work aims to strengthen educational opportunities for displaced individuals and improve the systems supporting both learners and educators in these challenging environments.

The various projects I have overseen can be organized into two overarching themes:  

Education and Psychosocial Support in Forced Migration Contexts (click here for brief overviews)

Teachers & School Leaders in Crisis and Displacement Contexts (click here for brief overviews)

Through my research, I have collaborated closely with many master’s and doctoral students, faculty colleagues, researchers, and practitioners. For more details about each of the projects captured on this website, including the myriad collaborators, please visit the Human Rights, Emergencies and Peacebuilding web page at Teachers College, Columbia University.