Ariel Becerra, Fulbrighter at Rice University

WEBSITE(S)| Political Science at Rice

Program: Ph.D. in Political Science
Home Country: Chile
Universities: Diego Portales University
Languages: Spanish, English
Pronouns: He/His

I am a political scientist passionate about social research, public policy, and the protection of democratic institutions. I graduated with the highest distinction from Diego Portales University, where I developed a strong foundation in political analysis and quantitative methods.

My research focuses on political participation, populism, public opinion, and electoral behavior, particularly in Latin America. I have worked as a senior public affairs analyst, leading legislative and regulatory analysis for high-level clients across different sectors. I have also contributed to academic projects centered on comparative studies of populism and how elites and citizens understand and evaluate democracy.

My academic work has appeared in Contemporary Politics, Colombia International, and Nationalism and Ethnic Politics, and Oxford University Press. I have presented my research at international conferences, including the Midwest Political Science Association and the Latin American Political Science Congress, engaging with scholars from diverse academic traditions.

I am motivated by a deep commitment to academic rigor, democratic values, and public service. I view political science not only as a discipline for understanding institutional dynamics and social behavior, but also as a tool for fostering more informed and as inclusive political debates. Through research and collaboration, I hope to contribute to building more equitable and participatory societies.

What I like about Rice/Houston

What I cherish most about Rice and Houston is their culture. From attending diverse music events to enjoying different kinds of food, there’s always something new to explore. The proximity to beautiful beaches also offers great opportunities for relaxing days.

What I like about Fulbright

What I value most about the Fulbright Program is its commitment to fostering mutual understanding through cultural and educational exchange. It provides a unique platform to engage deeply with diverse communities, promoting global collaboration and lifelong connections!

Fun fact about me

I’m a juggler! I picked up juggling as a hobby during my teenage years, and it has since become a delightful way to unwind and challenge my coordination skills!