David Osher is a researcher focusing on the intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational, and social conditions that support robust learning and thriving. His work embodies the science of learning and development; socio-cultural-historical processes; the conditions for learning, engagement, and thriving; consumer-driven approaches; equity; cultural responsiveness; intra-agency, interagency, interdisciplinary, and cross stakeholder collaboration; school and community safety; restorative and community-building approaches; and implementation science. 

Before retiring, he served as an Institute Fellow and Vice President at the American Institutes for Research (AIR), where he led a number of national centers, including the National Center on Safe and Supportive Learning Environments, where he oversaw a range of research, including the development of school climate surveys; SEL assessments; and planning and progress monitoring tools and dashboards. Before joining AIR, he taught and served as dean of an experimental liberal arts college and two community-focused schools of human service. He is an elected member of the National Academy of Education and a Fellow of the American Educational Research Association. He is the author of numerous articles and books, including Creating Safe, Equitable, Engaging Schools: A Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Approach to Supporting Students.

Osher earned his AB, AM, and PhD from Columbia University.

LPI Senior Fellows are invited based on their demonstrated expertise in the field and engagement with LPI’s mission to advance equitable, high-quality education through nonpartisan, evidence-based research. Beyond their collaborative efforts with LPI, the views and opinions expressed by LPI Senior Fellows are their own and do not reflect those of the institute.