My research interests lie within the fields of applied mathematics and network science. I am interested in applying computational and mathematical models to understand the relationship between social interactions, scientific discovery, productivity, innovation, and generosity. Additionally, I am interested in understanding how geography affects social networks.

My research within these areas includes the examination of the science of science, nature of productivity and prosocial behavior within cities, the structure and function of networks, and the mathematics of popular culture.

In addition to my scientific research, I write for popular audiences about topics related to science. My work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic Online, Wired, New Scientist, and The Boston Globe, where I am a regular contributor to the Ideas section. In addition, I have a blog called Social Dimension at Wired. I recently completed a book about how knowledge changes over time, entitled The Half-Life of Facts (Current / Penguin).

I also created something called The Milky Way Transit Authority – a map of our galaxy in the style of a subway map – which you might have heard of.