Ellen Litkowski
About Ellen Litkowski
Ellen Litkowski is a Human Services Researcher at Mathematica in Chicago, Illinois, where she focuses on how developmental science can inform early education policies. She has a background in educational psychology and has held various research positions, including a fellowship at the Society for Research in Child Development.
Work at Mathematica
Ellen Litkowski has been employed at Mathematica since 2021, serving as a Human Services Researcher. Her work is based in Chicago, Illinois, where she focuses on applying developmental science to inform early education policies. This role involves conducting research that aims to enhance understanding of how various factors impact young children's learning and development.
Previous Experience in Child Development Research
Prior to her current position, Ellen Litkowski worked as an AAAS/SRCD Executive Branch Policy Fellow at the Society for Research in Child Development from 2019 to 2021 in Arlington, Virginia. In this role, she engaged with policy-making processes related to child development and education. She also held a position as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Purdue University from 2017 to 2019, contributing to research initiatives in educational psychology.
Educational Background
Ellen Litkowski earned her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Psychology from Georgia State University, where she studied from 2013 to 2017. Prior to this, she completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology at Duke University, graduating in 2011. Her academic background provides a strong foundation for her research in early education and child development.
Research Focus and Contributions
Ellen Litkowski's research centers on understanding the role of contextual influences on young children's learning and development. She aims to identify effective strategies for parents and teachers to support early learning and facilitate positive transitions to school. Her work seeks to bridge the gap between developmental science and practical applications in educational settings.
Early Career and Volunteer Work
Before her academic and research roles, Ellen Litkowski served as a Research Assistant at Georgia State University from 2012 to 2013. She also participated in AmeriCorps as a member from 2011 to 2012, where she engaged in community service initiatives. These experiences contributed to her understanding of educational environments and the challenges faced by young learners.