Dr. Mark J. Van Ryzin is a Research Scientist at the Oregon Research Institute and faculty member in the College of Education at the University of Oregon. Dr. Van Ryzin has a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from the University of Minnesota and has conducted research with middle and high schools for more than 15 years. In that time, he has published a substantial number of scientific research articles in peer-reviewed journals on topics such as school climate, bullying and victimization, adolescent substance use, delinquent and prosocial behavior, academic engagement and achievement, stress and mental health, and teacher-to-student and student-to-student relationships (see here). He has also published several books on prevention science that emphasize family and peer processes. He brings a unique blend of scientific theory and evidence-based practices combined with the insight provided by his many years of experience working with teachers and students in a variety of K-12 settings, as well as his work with diverse college students in his classrooms at the University of Oregon. His mother and best friend are both teachers, and their experiences have strongly influenced his work over the years.