Lisa M. Montiel is a senior research scientist for the Institute's Urban and Metropolitan Studies Program. She is responsible for database management, statistical analysis, GIS and other research support. Her research has focused on social conditions and economic prospects of predominately minority neighborhoods in large metropolitan areas across the United States, economic hardship in American cities and government partnering with faith-based organizations as social service providers. Prior to joining the Institute, Montiel held teaching and research positions at the state University at Albany in the Department of Anthropology. She earned a master's in anthropology from Northern Illinois University and a doctorate at UAlbany.