About Lauren

Dr. Lauren Shaffer is a political scientist and educator specializing in international relations, comparative politics, and methodology. She earned her Ph.D. in Political Science and International Studies from Claremont Graduate University (CGU) in May 2023, with a dissertation examining the impact of development aid on human development. Lauren also holds an M.A. in International Studies from CGU and a B.A. in Religion and Government from Smith College. 

Currently serving as an adjunct professor at California State University, Northridge (CSUN), Lauren is passionate about student-centered teaching and creating engaging curricula that foster critical thinking. Her research interests span Latin America and the Middle East, with a focus on both economic and human development in the Global South. With a strong foundation in complex methodological approaches and data-driven analysis, Lauren aims to contribute to positive global change through her research and teaching.

Lauren’s Skills:

Writing: Excellent written communication skills. Extensive experience in writing and editing articles, reports, book chapters, policy briefs, and more.

Organization: Adept at organizing and establishing priority based on urgency and need. Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage time efficiently.

Research & Data Analysis Highly skilled in conducting research, both qualitative and quantitative. Excellent data analysis and datainterpretation skills.

Public Speaking & Presentation: Engaging public speaker and presenter with the ability to connect with diverse audiences.

Technical Skills: Advanced understanding of STATA, SAS, R, Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite

Leadership & Team-building: Highly skilled leader with experience in delegating tasks, overseeing project conception and completion, team-building, and creating positive student experiences.

To access Lauren’s Curriculum Vitae, click here.