Janet Vertesi

Janet Vertesi is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Princeton University, specializing in the sociology of science, technology, and organizations. Her research focuses on NASA’s robotic spacecraft teams, digital sociology, and the interplay between technology and society. She holds a PhD from Cornell University and has received numerous awards for her work, including the Melvin Pollner Prize (2022) and the David Edge Prize (2014). Vertesi has advised over 30 students and led major grants, including a Sloan Foundation grant for 'Resilient Science: Community Planning under/after Covid-19.' Her books include Shaping Science (2020) and Seeing Like a Rover (2015).

• Education: PhD (Cornell, 2009), MPhil (Cambridge, 2002), MA (Cornell, 2005), BA (UBC, 2002)
• Appointments: Behrman Faculty Fellow (2021–2023), Associate Professor (2020–present), Assistant Professor (2013–2020)
• Key Research Areas: Sociotechnical systems, planetary exploration, digital methods, and science policy

Vertesi’s work bridges ethnography and critical technical practice, examining how organizations and technologies shape scientific discovery. Her recent projects include studies on anti-racist technologies, long-duration space missions, and DEI initiatives in planetary science. She collaborates with NASA teams like the Europa Clipper Mission and serves on advisory boards for organizations such as the Electronic Privacy Information Center.

Her 15 most recent articles span topics like gig economy automation, Neptune mission design, and sociotechnical crises. Awards include recognition from ASA sections and the Society for Social Studies of Science.

Grants & Awards: Over $3M in NSF grants, Sloan Foundation support, and leadership in interdisciplinary initiatives like the 'Resilient Science' project.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with NASA’s Europa Clipper Mission as a social scientist, advising on teamwork and organizational dynamics.