The Lurie Institute for Disability Policy

The Lurie Institute for Disability Policy at Brandeis University’s Heller School for Social Policy and Management conducts research that helps shape policies, programs, and practices aimed at improving the lives of people with disabilities across the lifespan.

We partner with people with disabilities, community organizations, policymakers, and clinicians to produce research that addresses the critical issues that people with disabilities and their families face. This research incorporates qualitative and quantitative projects that are informed by the disability community and grounded in disability justice. Our research team includes established academic scholars, postdoctoral fellows, professional research staff, and student research assistants. We prioritize mentorship of the next generation of researchers.

The Lurie Institute is home to four federally funded research centers, each led by nationally recognized experts in disability research and policy.

Our research addresses critical issues such as poverty, unemployment, inequitable access to healthcare, discrimination, and community exclusion. Using both qualitative and quantitative methods, we generate data-driven insights to inform policies and programs. We collaborate with the disability community, advocacy organizations, policymakers, clinicians, and other stakeholders to ensure our research leads to meaningful, lasting change.