NYU Langone Health’s SPOTLIGHT Lab uses population science to strengthen public systems responsive to health, safety, and social crises. We design and evaluate interventions and policies spanning overdose and suicide, mental health and substance use, community and interpersonal violence, and traumatic injury, all in the context of the social systems that shape these risks. Methodologically, we draw from epidemiology, data science, economics, and bioethics. Regardless of topic or method, our work supports public institutions to operate with clarity, strategy, and care.

In collaboration with a range of partners, our team develops research and evaluation initiatives that inform more effective, equitable, and accountable public systems. We work closely with policymakers, public sector agencies, community-based organizations, and healthcare and social service providers to turn complex data into concrete action. While national in scope, our work prioritizes local policies and programs, reflective of our commitment to build a pipeline that moves rigorous population science into timely community impact.