Taylor Kincaid Odle

Taylor Odle (he/him) is an Assistant Professor of Educational Policy Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. As an applied quantitative policy scholar, his work leverages causal inference and data science techniques to study issues in the economics of education with a specific focus on college access and success. Throughout this work, Taylor uses field experiments and quasi-experimental evaluations to study “what works” for improving students’ transitions to and through college—and at reducing inequality. Much of this research focuses on college admissions practices, financial aid, and college advising examined through research-practice partnerships. He is a faculty affiliate in Data Science, the Institute for Research on Poverty, the Institute for Diversity Science, and the Interdisciplinary Training Program in Education Sciences. He teaches courses in the economics of education, higher education policy, quantitative methods, and cost-effectiveness. Taylor is ranked among the nation's top scholars who influence education policy and practice. He is also the 2026 recipient of the Early Career Award from the Association for Education Finance and Policy and the Society for Research on Educational Effectiveness, and his work received the 2023 Raymond Vernon Memorial Award from the Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management.