Biography

Lauren Ortosky is a PhD student at The University of California Santa Barbara. Her research explores the role of the self in conflict, and often integrates ideas from other disciplines in the social sciences. Lauren received a BA with Honors in International Studies from The University of Chicago. She then spent several years as a consultant focusing on leadership development and executive career transition. Along the way, she collaborated on diverse research projects at MIT, Boston College, and Northwestern University before finally making her way west to re-engage with academics full time. Off campus, Lauren prioritizes health and fitness and is often found running, doing yoga, wandering the farmers market, or cooking up a vegetarian feast for friends. 

Research Area

Lauren Ortosky researches the role of the self in intergroup conflict, and the circumstances under which one might prefer disorder over stability. Carrying a background in International Relations to her study of Social Psychology, her work attempts to holistically explore the many factors influencing the establishment and entrenchment of group polarization that may lead to violence.