Meltem Odabaş
I design and lead analytical systems that turn complex data into decision-ready insight.
I am a research strategist and quantitative social scientist with 10+ years of experience designing and leading research and evaluation that inform strategy and decision-making in global health, social policy, and public opinion research. My work focuses on building scalable research and evaluation systems, integrating AI-assisted methods into evidence workflows, and translating complex data into strategic decisions.
Currently at the Guttmacher Institute, I lead and contribute to large-scale analytical initiatives that inform policy and funding decisions in global health. Previously, I worked at Pew Research Center’s Data Labs as a computational social scientist.
Work With Me
Research Leadership
10+ years of experience leading complex data analysis and research programs that bring together technical depth and organizational strategy.
My approach to research →Reporting and Data Communication
I translate methodologically rigorous research into clear, accessible outputs, with a focus on collaboration and organizational impact.
Public-facing work →Mentorship for Social Scientists (MA/PhD → Alt-Ac Careers)
Transitioning beyond academia requires more than technical skill. I work with social scientists to reposition their experience, build a clear direction, and move into research roles at NGOs and industry.
Get a free 30-minute consultation →Background
PhD & MA in Sociology, University of Arizona (Tucson, AZ)
MA & BA in Economics, Boğaziçi University (Boğaziçi Üniversitesi, İstanbul, Türkiye).
Experience across academic, nonprofit, public opinion and policy-oriented research organizations.