Clifton van der Linden

Dr. Clifton van der Linden is an Associate Professor of Political Science at McMaster University, where he serves as Director of the Digital Society Lab and Academic Director of the Master of Public Policy in Digital Society program. He is also a Visiting Fellow at the Oxford Internet Institute, exploring the interplay between digital technologies and democratic processes.

• PhD in Political Science (University of Toronto, 2019)
• MA in Journalism (Western University, 2005)
• Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science (McMaster University, 2004)

His research centers on how digital technologies like artificial intelligence reshape democratic participation, political behavior, and public opinion. He specializes in voting advice applications (e.g., Vox Pop Labs), electoral politics, and the ethical implications of data-driven governance.

Dr. van der Linden’s scholarly output includes 15 recent articles spanning public health policy, political methodology, and transnational integration. His work has been featured in journals like Philosophy & Technology and European Union Politics, with themes ranging from pandemic behavioral analysis to Brexit trade-offs.

• Adel S. Sedra Distinguished Graduate Award (University of Toronto)
• Clarkson Laureateship for Public Service (Massey College)
• Arch Alumni Award (McMaster University)
• Toronto Region Board of Trade's Entrepreneur of the Year

As a serial entrepreneur, Dr. van der Linden has founded multiple tech ventures, including Vox Pop Labs, creator of Vote Compass—a tool used in over 50 elections worldwide. He advises governments on technology policy and frequently contributes to media discussions on elections.