Pew Research Center: News & Media Research Team & Credits

Pew Research Center Acknowledges Collaborative Efforts in Latest Report on News and Information

Washington D.C. – A new report examining the state of news, information, and journalism in the digital age has been released, highlighting the extensive collaborative work behind its findings. The research, conducted by the Pew Research Center, acknowledges the contributions of a diverse team spanning research, editorial, and communications departments. This latest analysis builds upon 25 years of tracking technological shifts and media consumption habits in the United States, a project that began as internet access and smartphone ownership were still emerging trends. The Center’s ongoing investigation aims to understand evolving patterns in how Americans access and engage with news, a topic of increasing importance in a rapidly changing information landscape.

The Pew Research Center, a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts, relies on substantial funding from its parent organization to support its research initiatives. This particular report, like many others from the Center, is the result of a concerted effort involving multiple teams. The collaborative process ensures a comprehensive approach to data analysis, interpretation, and dissemination. The Center’s work is particularly relevant given the increasing concerns surrounding misinformation and the need for reliable sources of information, especially as highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, which underscored the critical role of broadband access and digital literacy.

The report specifically recognizes the contributions of individuals within the News and Information Research team, led by Director Katerina Eva Matsa and Associate Director Michael Lipka. Researchers Emily Tomasik, Joanne Haner, Naomi Forman-Katz, Sawyer Reed, Luxuan Wang, and Elisa Shearer all played key roles in the research process. Their work involved analyzing data, conducting research, and formulating insights into the evolving media landscape. The Pew Research Center’s commitment to rigorous research methodologies is a cornerstone of its reputation for providing nonpartisan, fact-based analysis.

Editorial and Design Contributions

Beyond the research component, the report acknowledges the vital role of the editorial and graphic design teams in shaping the final product. Mia Hennen served as the Editorial Assistant, while David Kent, Senior Editorial Specialist, contributed to the refinement of the report’s content. Peter Bell, Associate Director of Design and Production, oversaw the visual presentation of the findings, ensuring clarity and accessibility. Andrea Caumont, Associate Director of Digital Outreach, was responsible for expanding the report’s reach and impact through digital channels. Effective communication of complex data requires a skilled editorial and design team, and the Pew Research Center’s report reflects this commitment to quality presentation.

Communications and Web Publishing Efforts

The dissemination of the report’s findings was spearheaded by the Communications and Web Publishing team. Sogand Afkari, Communications Manager, led the effort to promote the report to a wider audience. Talia Price, Communications Associate, assisted in these efforts. Janakee Chavda and Justine Coleman, both Associate Digital Producers, were responsible for ensuring the report was readily accessible online. The team’s work is crucial in translating research findings into actionable insights for policymakers, journalists, and the public. The Pew Research Center’s website, pewresearch.org/topic/news-habits-media/, serves as a central hub for its research and publications.

The Importance of Collaborative Research

The acknowledgement of these contributions underscores the increasingly complex nature of research in the digital age. Analyzing trends in news consumption, information dissemination, and the impact of technology requires a multidisciplinary approach. The Pew Research Center’s model, bringing together experts from various fields, demonstrates a commitment to producing comprehensive and nuanced findings. This collaborative approach is particularly important in addressing the challenges posed by the spread of misinformation and the erosion of trust in traditional media institutions.

The Center’s work is informed by a long history of tracking technology adoption in the United States. As noted in a recent analysis published in January 2026, the Pew Research Center has been surveying Americans for two decades to understand broadband subscription rates, smartphone ownership, and online behavior. This ongoing research provides valuable context for understanding the current state of the media landscape and the challenges that lie ahead. The data collected through these surveys is essential for informing policy decisions and developing strategies to bridge the digital divide.

Addressing the Digital Divide

The Pew Charitable Trusts, the primary funder of the Pew Research Center, has also been actively involved in initiatives to address the digital divide. A recent report from The Pew Charitable Trusts, “Voices From America’s Digital Divide,” highlights the experiences of individuals who lack access to affordable broadband and digital skills training. This report emphasizes the importance of federal investments, such as the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program and the Digital Equity Act, which were enacted as part of the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. These programs aim to connect households and businesses to quality broadband service and ensure that all Americans have the skills to participate in the digital economy.

The collaborative spirit evident in the Pew Research Center’s report extends beyond its internal teams. The Center actively engages with external stakeholders, including policymakers, journalists, and community organizations, to share its findings and promote informed dialogue. This commitment to transparency and collaboration is essential for building trust and fostering a more informed public discourse. The Center’s work serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the evolving dynamics of the news and information ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the Pew Research Center will continue to monitor trends in news consumption, technology adoption, and the digital divide. The Center’s ongoing research will be crucial for informing policy decisions and developing strategies to ensure that all Americans have access to reliable information and the opportunity to participate fully in the digital age. Further reports and analyses are expected throughout 2026, building on the foundation laid by this latest collaborative effort.

The next scheduled release of data from the Pew Research Center regarding internet and technology usage is anticipated in late spring 2026, focusing on emerging trends in social media and online privacy. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences regarding the evolving media landscape in the comments below.