Theo Baker

Theo Baker is an journalist and author recognized for his investigative reporting in higher education and scientific research. Baker matriculated at Stanford University at age 17, initially intending to pursue computer science, and joined The Stanford Daily, the student-run independent newspaper. Motivated by personal loss, he began investigating concerns about scientific research tied to then-Stanford President Marc Tessier-Lavigne. Baker's reporting led to a series of articles that resulted in Tessier-Lavigne's resignation, the retraction of five major studies, and increased scrutiny of scientific misconduct in academia. His work contributed to changes in how university leaders are vetted and prompted the journal Science to review tens of thousands of studies for image manipulation.

The Stanford Daily received a George Polk Award for its reporting on Tessier-Lavigne, marking the first time an independent, student-run newspaper received the honor. Baker was recognized with a Special Award from the Polk Awards, making him the youngest recipient in the award's history. He has also received a James Madison Freedom of Information Award from the Northern California Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.

Baker's journalism has appeared in the New York Times, The Atlantic, and New York Magazine, and he has made appearances on MSNBC, CNN, PBS NewsHour, and CNBC. His article, "The War at Stanford," published in The Atlantic, examined Stanford University's response to the Hamas-led attack on Israel and critiqued the university's public statements. He is the author of the New York Times bestselling book, "How to Rule the World: An Education in Power at Stanford University."