Daniel Friend, PhD, is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Community Health Sciences at the University of Illinois Chicago's School of Public Health. He is also a Principal Researcher at Mathematica, where he leads implementation studies and rapid-cycle evaluations for human services programs serving children and families in poverty.

His research interests focus on improving program effectiveness through evidence-based implementation. Key areas include:

Implementation Science and the Learn, Innovate, Improve (LI
Healthy Marriage and Relationship Education programs
Responsible Fatherhood initiatives
Two-generation (2-Gen) service models integrating education, employment, and social support
Family violence prevention and treatment
Technical assistance and stakeholder engagement in public health

Dr. Friend's work bridges clinical practice and policy research, emphasizing real-world impact in underserved communities. Although no specific publications are listed, his project leadership suggests a strong focus on applied public health research, evaluation methodology, and social determinants of health.

His scientific contributions are recognized through active project leadership rather than formal awards listed here.

Dr. Friend provides mentorship and academic guidance as part of his adjunct role. He contributes to research grants and projects such as the Strengthening the Implementation of Healthy Marriage and Relationship Programs and the Agape 2-Gen Program Evaluation, which involve multi-agency collaboration, data collection, analysis, and technical assistance. These projects reflect substantial grant-supported work in social and public health policy.

He is involved in research teams at Mathematica and collaborates with federal, state, and local agencies, nonprofit organizations, and foundations to improve program delivery and outcomes for vulnerable populations.