Michael Lens has worked on and researched social policy issues for over six years, and is a Research Associate the Vera Institute of Justice.Mr. Lens’ research focuses on juvenile justice policies, and he conducts analysis on juvenile detention use, as well as program evaluations of adolescent substance abuse and prisoner reentry programs.He is currently a doctoral student at NYU’s Wagner School of Public Service, where he studies urban and economic policy.His doctoral research will focus on examining the economic and social predictors and impacts of crime, criminal justice policy, and unemployment.Mr. Lens holds a Masters degree in Public Policy from the University of Michigan and a BA in Political Science from Macalester College.