Brady T. West, whose research explores the real-world complications that arise from collecting data via personal surveys, will receive the Collegiate Research Professorship for his exceptional scholarly achievements and advanced knowledge in his field.
West is a survey statistician and research professor within the Survey Research Center and a faculty associate at the Population Studies Center, both within the Institute for Social Research. He will begin his five-year renewable term of the professorship this fall. The Office of the Vice President for Research offers the award.
West’s work focuses on ensuring data is collected, analyzed and interpreted accurately. His pioneering methodological research helps long-term studies collect more accurate and trustworthy results by developing processes to adjust survey data to account for nonresponses, those who drop out over time and over or underrepresented groups.
West’s scholarship is increasingly important as response rates to traditional surveys decline and data collection modes shift. His work helps researchers confront these challenges and strengthens the credibility and accuracy of the data used by policymakers and public health leaders to make decisions.
He has also written materials to help other researchers design accurate surveys.
In their nomination, West’s colleagues noted his prolific record of publications in survey methodology and his groundbreaking leadership in methods development to improve the quality of data collection.
They specifically noted his work in its usefulness as a training tool for new researchers and as an essential resource in designing their own work.
They also remarked on his extraordinary dedication to mentorship, commitment to expanding opportunities within the field and service to the research community through his many roles as a leader and committee member across academic organizations.
“Brady West’s work enhances the quality of results, enhancing the potential impact and reach of research across disciplines,” said Arthur Lupia, vice president for research and innovation. “Our aim as a research university is to serve communities through our research. Brady’s efforts are an incredible example of how our faculty are striving to ensure the work done on our campus is of the highest quality and best reflects the real world challenges that communities are facing.”
West will be honored at the annual Faculty Awards Ceremony and dinner this fall.
