Jennifer M. Bailey

Dr. Jennifer A. Bailey is a seasoned developmental psychologist and public health researcher who serves as Director of Research, Assistant Director, and Principal Research Scientist at the University of Washington’s Social Development Research Group (SDRG). With over two decades of professional experience, she specializes in longitudinal, multilevel, and complex data analysis focused on youth development, substance use prevention, cannabis policy, and public health strategy. Dr. Bailey earned her Ph.D. and M.A. in Developmental Psychology from the University of Arizona, where she developed a strong foundation in psychological research methodology and adolescent development. Since joining SDRG in 2002, she has led and contributed to numerous large-scale, federally funded projects designed to inform evidence-based public policy and community health initiatives. Her work aims to understand and improve long-term developmental outcomes for youth, especially in the context of changing cannabis legislation and risk behaviors such as substance use and conduct issues. Currently, Dr. Bailey is the Principal Investigator on several major projects, including “Cannabis Legalization a Decade Later” and “Testing Cross-Generational Effects of the Raising Healthy Children Intervention,” both funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). These studies explore the effects of cannabis legalization on teens, young adults, and parents, and examine how preventive interventions across generations can shape behavioral health trajectories. Her work also includes an international scope, such as cross-national investigations into alcohol use predictors. Beyond her scientific research, Dr. Bailey contributes to policy and review mechanisms nationally. She serves as a standing member on NIH study sections (RPPH and BGES) for the Center for Scientific Review and sits on the Board of Directors for the UW Center for Cannabis Research. Through these roles, she helps shape funding priorities and the broader direction of behavioral health research. Dr. Bailey is recognized for her expertise in program evaluation, statistical modeling, and policy-relevant research. She has helped secure and manage over $10 million in federal grants, and her communication skills allow her to effectively translate complex findings to both scientific and public audiences. Her leadership has guided interdisciplinary teams across government, academia, and community sectors to develop evidence-based strategies that improve youth and family well-being. In addition to her scientific impact, she has demonstrated strong dedication to mentorship, team development, and diversity in research. Her combination of analytical rigor and strategic thinking makes her a leading voice in the intersection of youth behavioral research, public health policy, and cannabis law reform.