Dr. Becker specializes in political communication, public opinion, and media effects research. Her current areas of focus include: (1) public opinion and political participation on controversial issues, (2) the effects of exposure to entertainment, especially political comedy, (3) new and emerging media, and (4) science communication. She has published in a variety of communication and interdisciplinary social science journals including The International Journal of Press/Politics, The International Journal of Public Opinion Research, Mass Communication & Society, and Political Communication. Dr. Becker teaches MCOM 390: Mass Communication Research, MCOM 431/550: Public Opinion and the Press, and a Towson Seminar entitled, "Popular Culture and Politics: Comedy, Celebrity, Entertainment, and Democracy." She has a background in survey research, having worked for various political polling and corporate market research firms. During this time, Dr. Becker was responsible for providing analysis and strategic insight to political candidates running for national and state office and for major corporations looking to redefine their brand image.