Mesmin Destin

Mesmin Destin is an associate professor in the Department of Psychology and School of Education and Social Policy at Northwestern University in addition to a fellow of Northwestern’s Institute for Policy Research. He completed his PhD in Social Psychology at the University of Michigan in 2010. In collaboration with his lab group, Destin uses experiments and other methods to investigate factors shaping the experiences and outcomes of students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. His work carries implications for institutions and the development of learning environments that recognize and leverage student strengths and identities in ways that support motivation, achievement, and well-being.

Destin publishes his research in journals reaching audiences across the social sciences and public policy, and his work has been supported by organizations including the National Science Foundation, the Russell Sage Foundation, and the William T. Grant Foundation. He has received a variety of awards for his teaching, mentoring, and scholarship, including the American Psychological Association Distinguished Scientific Award for Early Career Contribution in 2019.

Photo Credit: Steve Drey