Ren Liu is an Assistant Professor and Area Head of Quantitative Methods, Measurement, and Statistics at the University of California, Merced.
Ren's work focuses on the development of advanced statistical and measurement methods in the behavioral and social sciences. He specializes in psychometric theories and their practical applications in measure development and analysis, aiming to accurately measure complex latent traits and provide actionable feedback to stakeholders. Ren has been awarded the Rising Star designation by the Association for Psychological Science.
In addition to his primary research in methodology, Ren is committed to translating innovative methods for applied researchers to promote best practices. Ren actively collaborates with colleagues on substantive research projects in diverse domains such as substance use, self-injury, criminal justice, LGBTQ+ groups, patients with ADHD, and children with altruism. His previous experience includes working at the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME), the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), and co-chairing the National Council on Measurement in Education (NCME) Mission Fund Committee. He is also the Statistical Editor for the International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, the official journal of the International Society of Behavioral Medicine.