Aala Abdelgadir is a comparative political scientist researching Muslim identity and politics in two contexts. In sub-Saharan Africa, Aala explores the determinants of conservative Islamic ideas and identities and their implications for political stability and social cohesion. In the European context, Aala examines the impact of institutional policies and societal attitudes on the meaningful inclusion and integration of Muslim minorities. 

Aala obtained her PhD in political science from Stanford University. Previously, she worked at the Council on Foreign Relations. She received her BA from Yale University.