About Us
The PPL Institute (pronounced "People") is a non-partisan research institute with a committed interest in social psychology and political science. Dedicated to producing novel, rigorous work that understands the nature of people and plights that affect them, we hope our research inspires public discourse. By engaging with our work, we hope individuals feel empowered to make informed choices with a heightened sense of awareness about themselves and the world.
Our research is presented as slideshow presentations, summaries, and scientific reports to ensure that the findings are available to a broad audience. All of our work is publicly available on our website under the "Articles" page. We encourage you to explore our research, articles, and other materials, and to engage with us on social media or as contributors. We are always looking to uncover new ways of thinking about the world around us, and we hope you will join us for this endeavor.
The Team
Ryan R. Rajpal
Director, Founder
Ryan is a political psychologist specializing in American politics, public opinion, political communication, and social dynamics. His previous research examined how platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and TikTok influence personal well-being and political engagement. His current work investigates affective polarization and the formation of political beliefs within shared digital culture. He recieved his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Philosophy from Rutgers University–New Brunswick, where he graduated summa cum laude and with highest honors in political science.
Alexis R. Grayon, MPH
Non-Resident Fellow
Alexis is a pediatric, perinatal, and environmental epidemiologist whose work emphasizes underlying social determinants of health. They are interested in the factors that shape attitudes and behaviors, understanding the subsequent effects on psychosocial health and wellbeing, and using complex data approaches to explore these relationships. Alexis received their Bachelor of Science in Biomolecular Science from New York University and their Master of Public Health in Environmental Health Sciences and Molecular Epidemiology from Columbia University.
Liesl Co
Science Communicator, Research Assistant
Liesl is an aspiring biomedical scientist and avid science communicator. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience from Rutgers University. Her honors thesis explored the epigenetic mechanisms underlying the brain’s ability to remember important sound cues and link them to learned behaviors. She continues to be interested in the intersection of epigenetics, environmental factors, and neurobiology, especially in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. Beyond research itself, she is just as passionate about translating it in engaging, accessible, and empowering ways for the public.
Paige Iino
Research Assistant
Paige is currently a student at Rutgers University—New Brunswick double majoring in Political Science and Economics with a minor in International and Global Studies. Her research interests include American politics, international politics, law, and diplomacy.