Survey Research & Generative AI Insights & Training
Michael Link, Ph.D.
Experience
Interests
Passions
With over 35 years in survey research and measurement science, I’ve worked across academia (University of South Carolina), nonprofits (RTI International), government (CDC), and the private sector (Nielsen, Ipsos & Abt Global), gaining a unique, 360-degree perspective on how data is collected, analyzed, and applied. I’ve held senior execu
With over 35 years in survey research and measurement science, I’ve worked across academia (University of South Carolina), nonprofits (RTI International), government (CDC), and the private sector (Nielsen, Ipsos & Abt Global), gaining a unique, 360-degree perspective on how data is collected, analyzed, and applied. I’ve held senior executive roles at Nielsen, Ipsos, and Abt Associates, leading teams of 150+ professionals and managing $100M+ in revenue.
My career has been shaped by transformational moments—guiding organizations through major shifts in research methodologies, technologies, and economic shifts. I contribute to National Academies of Sciences task forces, reimagining federal statistical surveys for the modern era. A frequent global conference speaker and plenary presenter, I publish research in leading journals and now blog regularly, ensuring new insights reach a broader audience quickly and effectively.
Passions
Interests
Passions
I’m driven by one question: “Where are we going?” As technology reshapes how we collect and understand information, my passion lies at the intersection of research, innovation, and emerging tools.
From pioneering address-based sampling (ABS methodologies)—work that earned the Mitofsky AAPOR Innovators Award—to leading industry task forces
I’m driven by one question: “Where are we going?” As technology reshapes how we collect and understand information, my passion lies at the intersection of research, innovation, and emerging tools.
From pioneering address-based sampling (ABS methodologies)—work that earned the Mitofsky AAPOR Innovators Award—to leading industry task forces on digital measurement, my focus has always been on helping professionals adapt and thrive.
Today, I explore how generative AI is transforming survey research and information collection—not from a technical, statistical lens, but from a practical, real-world perspective. My goal is to make AI accessible and actionable, empowering researchers to enhance their work without needing a data science degree.
Interests
Interests
Interests
When I’m not immersed in research and helping clients, you’ll find me:
· Playing rock music behind a drum set.
· Piloting drones, capturing aerial photography.
· Hiking with my dogs, exploring nature.
· Volunteering to clear wilderness trails.
· Experimenting in the kitchen, developing a family cookbook.
· Spending time with my wife, family, an
When I’m not immersed in research and helping clients, you’ll find me:
· Playing rock music behind a drum set.
· Piloting drones, capturing aerial photography.
· Hiking with my dogs, exploring nature.
· Volunteering to clear wilderness trails.
· Experimenting in the kitchen, developing a family cookbook.
· Spending time with my wife, family, and granddaughter, cherishing the moments that matter most.
Whether in research, innovation, or life, I believe in curiosity, exploration, and pushing boundaries—a mindset I bring to helping organizations navigate the future of data collection and insight generation.
About Michael Link Research Consulting
Consulting
We provide expert guidance at the intersection of survey research, generative AI, and data collection methodologies. Whether you're navigating complex research challenges, integrating new technologies, or refining data collection strategies, we offer tailored, results-driven solutions. With deep experience across academia, government, nonprofits, and the private sector, we bring a unique, multi-disciplinary perspective to help organizations adapt, innovate, and make informed decisions.
Projects
We collaborate on custom research initiatives designed to enhance measurement accuracy, research efficiency, and Generative AI-driven insights. From evaluating new survey methodologies to developing innovative data collection strategies, we partner with organizations to execute high-impact projects that deliver actionable results. With a pragmatic, forward-thinking approach, we ensure every project aligns with your objectives while integrating the latest advancements in research and technology.
Training
Keeping up with new technologies and evolving research methods is essential. Our customized training programs help organizations and research teams build expertise in survey design, AI integration, and modern data collection techniques. Whether through live workshops, virtual sessions, or hands-on training, we make complex concepts accessible, practical, and easy to implement, ensuring teams are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to stay ahead in an ever-changing research landscape.