Virginia and Leonard Marx Professor of Child Development and Education, Teachers College and College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Co–director, National Center for Children and Families Co–director, Columbia University Institute for Child and Family Policy
Professor Brooks–Gunn is a nationally–renowned scholar and expert whose research centers on family and community influences on the development of children and youth. She is interested in factors that contribute to both positive and negative outcomes (and changes in well–being) across childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, with a particular focus on key social and biological transitions (in schooling, family structure and dynamics, parenthood, and puberty, sexual onset, and pregnancy) over the life course. Brooks–Gunn has also designed and evaluated interventions aimed at enhancing the well–being of children living in poverty and associated conditions. She has published over 500 articles and chapters, written 4 books, edited 13 volumes, and been the recipient of numerous major awards and honors. Brooks–Gunn’s research has significantly shaped our understanding of child development and the influence of parents, schools and contextual factors.