Alex is a health communication researcher and a member of the Social Data Collaboratory at NORC. Alex is a mixed-method researcher at the intersection of health communication and media effects and is passionate about implementing behavior change theories in health communication interventions aimed at improving outcomes related to opioid use disorder, youth mental health, and substance use. His first-authored peer-reviewed research on the subject has been published in JAMA Pediatrics, Health Communication, and the Journal of Health Communication, and Social Media + Society and received media coverage in The New York Times and U.S. News & World Report.

As a key member of Sherry Emery's Social Data Collaboratory, Alex leads innovative work in health communication research, with a focus on substance use disorders, youth mental health, and social media influence in public health spaces. His research portfolio encompasses diverse areas including opioid use disorder, youth mental health, and health equity. Alex has made significant contributions to the Justice Community Innovation Network (JCOIN), investigating the impact of partisan media consumption on opioid stigma and policy support, as well as exploring the protective potential of opioid knowledge against opioid use disorder blame. His recent substance use work also includes research on public perceptions of opioid misuse recovery. His work in emerging areas such as gambling and social media influence showcases his commitment to addressing pressing public health challenges through novel approaches and technologies.