David Szakonyi
About David Szakonyi
David Szakonyi is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at George Washington University, where he has worked since 2016. He co-founded the Anti-Corruption Data Collective and has published research on the intersection of business and politics, particularly in Russia.
Work at The George Washington University
David Szakonyi has served as an Assistant Professor of Political Science at George Washington University since 2016. His role involves teaching and conducting research in the field of political science, focusing on various aspects of political behavior and governance. He is based in the Washington D.C. Metro Area, where he engages with students and faculty on topics related to political systems and corruption.
Education and Expertise
David Szakonyi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political and Social Thought from the University of Virginia, which he completed from 2002 to 2006. He later pursued a Ph.D. in Political Science at Columbia University, studying from 2009 to 2016. His academic background equips him with a strong foundation in political theory and empirical research, particularly in the context of Russian politics and governance.
Background and Previous Experience
Before his current position, David Szakonyi worked as a Research Associate at the National Endowment for Democracy from 2008 to 2009 in the Washington D.C. Metro Area. He also served as a Researcher at the European Center for Minority Issues for seven months in Tbilisi, Georgia, from 2007 to 2008. Additionally, he has been a Research Fellow at the National Research University — Higher School of Economics in Moscow since 2011.
Research Contributions and Projects
David Szakonyi has contributed to various academic journals, including the American Political Science Review and the Journal of Politics. His research primarily focuses on the impact of businesspeople in politics, especially in Russia. He has also been involved in projects analyzing the effects of political connections on economic outcomes, highlighting the intersection of politics and economics.
Anti-Corruption Data Collective
David Szakonyi co-founded the Anti-Corruption Data Collective, an initiative aimed at using data to expose corruption. This collective focuses on leveraging data analysis to shed light on corrupt practices and promote transparency in governance. His involvement reflects his commitment to addressing issues of corruption through empirical research and collaboration.