Emily Tanner-Smith

Dr. Emily Tanner-Smith serves as the Interim Dean of the University of Oregon's College of Education and holds the rank of Thomson Professor in the Counseling Psychology and Human Services Department. She is also a research scientist at the Prevention Science Institute and directs the HEDCO Institute for Evidence-Based Educational Practice. Her expertise lies in meta-analysis and research synthesis methodologies, focusing on youth behavioral and mental health interventions. She earned her PhD in Sociology from Vanderbilt University with a focus on quantitative methods.

Education background includes a PhD in Sociology (Vanderbilt, 2009), MA in Sociology (Vanderbilt, 2007), and BS in Sociology with a Psychology minor (Belmont University, 2003). Her research emphasizes substance use prevention, delinquency reduction, and evidence-based decision-making. Notable contributions include studies on recovery high schools, brief alcohol interventions, and the effectiveness of youth-focused interventions.

Research interests are anchored in methodological rigor, with lab leadership in the Applied Research Methods and Statistics group. Key awards include the Robert Boruch Award (2020) and Nan Tobler Award (2018). She actively serves on editorial boards for journals like Psychological Bulletin and Prevention Science.

• Advising: Currently accepting Prevention Science PhD students (2026-2027)
• Grants: Funded by NIH, IES, and multiple federal agencies
• Teams: Leadership roles in Prevention Science Institute and HEDCO initiatives

Labs and teams include the Prevention Science Institute and HEDCO's Evidence-Based Practice initiatives, emphasizing translational research and policy impact.