Welcome to Research Assistant Professor Shahin Davoudpour, PhD, MA, MA
March 8, 2024
We are pleased to welcome Shahin Davoudpour, PhD, MA, MA as Research Assistant Professor of Medical Social Sciences in the Division of Outcome and Measurement Science at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Shahin holds a PhD in sociology from the University of California, Irvine, where he also earned a master's degree in demographic and social analysis and a second master’s degree in mathematical behavior sciences. As a quantitative researcher, he specializes in exploring the intersection of organizational behavior, legal inclusion, and societal attitudes.
His journey in research began with a fascination for human behavior, leading him to focus on workplace heterosexism during his undergraduate years. The concept of stigma became a central theme in his work, evolving from workplace dynamics to broader societal issues. Dr. Davoudpour was the first to identify and study the phenomenon of "superficial allies" – individuals who outwardly support a cause but maintain a distance in personal relationships. This work challenged prevailing notions and earned recognition for shedding light on the complexities of allyship. Now in Dr. Gregory Phillips’ program, Dr. Davoudpour is studying HIV stigma and the impact of legal rollbacks on stigmatization, addressing these crucial issues often overlooked in academic discourse.
Currently serving as the Associate Director of Organizational Research for the Evaluation and Data Integration and Technical Assistance (EDIT) Program, Shahin is dedicated to strengthening EDIT’s organizational arm. Additionally, a significant portion of his service is dedicated to Northwestern's Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health (ISGMH) Equity Committee, working towards meaningful inclusion and unity across diverse equity initiatives.
As he envisions the future, Shahin is determined to create impact through teaching organizational competencies to MPH students, contributing to community-engaged research, and exploring the consequences of legal changes on societal attitudes. Shahin's narrative showcases not only his expertise as a quantitative researcher but also his passion for addressing societal challenges through innovative and impactful research methodologies. With a focus on allyship, stigma, and organizational dynamics, we are excited for the contributions Shahin will make as part of our vibrant community at MSS.