Sumit Karn is a sociologist whose work examines the intersection of education, society, and politics, with a particular focus on how the diffusion of ideas, innovations, and institutions as well as public opinion shape educational policies, reforms, and systems. He pursues this work through the disciplinary lens of sociology, utilizing multiple and mixed-methods approaches. His recent study on the impact of public opinion on the Indian education system was recognized as a finalist for the 2024 Young Public Opinion Scholars Award by the New York Chapter of the American Association for Public Opinion Research. His work has been published in numerous reputed journals, including Economic Analysis and Policy journal. 

Before joining Columbia University, Sumit worked and/or supported various impactful projects with organizations, such as Bloomberg Philanthropies (Global Scholar program), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (Ananya 3SI project with CDOT in Bihar, India), and Steps (DDA project of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services). Prior to that, he worked as a journalist for the Everett Herald newspaper in Washington, USA. 

Recognized as one of the top change-makers by India's leading media house, Dainik Jagran, and as an Emerging Leader by Washington’s Herald Business Journal, Sumit brings a blend of interdisciplinary research and hands-on experience to his work. Sumit holds an M.A. in International Educational Development from Columbia University, a post-graduate certificate in Education & Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania, and a B.A. in Strategic Communication from Washington State University.