Dena Izadi

Dr. Dena Izadi is a Research Specialist and Project Manager in the Physics Education Research Lab (PERL) at Michigan State University, where she works closely with Dr. Rachel Henderson. She serves as Co-PI on a National Science Foundation–funded project focused on developing new approaches to physics assessment and supports the coordination of PERL’s qualitative and mixed-methods research activities.

Her current work explores how physics instructors approach assessment in their teaching and the factors that shape their goals and decisions. Dena has experience in qualitative research, data organization, and project coordination within collaborative academic settings.

She previously held a postdoctoral position in PERL focused on informal physics education, where she studied how physicists engage with the public across the United States. Outside of work, Dena loves cooking and creating. She enjoys exploring different crafts and making time for creativity in everyday life.