He also works as a research associate with the Quello Center for Telecommunication Management and Law at Michigan State University, where he previously served as Associate Director for four years. He was also previously a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Telecommunication, Information Studies, and Media at Michigan State University. His research explores and evaluates the impact that traditional and new/social media technologies have on civic engagement, communication policymaking and the inclusiveness of public culture. Dr. Obar holds a Ph.D. from Penn State University (Mass Communications), an M.A. from Syracuse University (Media Studies), and a B.A. from York University (Communication Studies and Humanities).