About the Founder

Joel Taylor

Founder & Executive Director, SHAZAM Foundation

Joel Taylor, Founder of the SHAZAM Foundation

Credentials

  • U.S. Navy Veteran
  • B.S. Physics
  • Published — Academia.edu
  • Published — Scientific American
  • Founder & Executive Director

U.S. Navy Veteran

Joel Taylor served his country as a member of the United States Navy, an experience that instilled in him the discipline, strategic thinking, and commitment to service that define his leadership of the SHAZAM Foundation today. His military background informs the Foundation's approach to global security, humanitarian response, and institutional resilience.

Scientific Credentials

Joel holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics, providing the rigorous analytical foundation that underpins the SHAZAM Foundation's evidence-based approach to every pillar of its work — from environmental science and technological innovation to policy research and humanitarian strategy.

Academic & Published Author

Joel is recognized in the academic community through his published work on Academia.edu and his contributions to Scientific American. His research bridges the gap between fundamental science and real-world application — a philosophy that runs through every program the SHAZAM Foundation operates.

Vision for the Foundation

Joel founded the SHAZAM Foundation on the conviction that the world's most complex problems — environmental collapse, humanitarian crises, injustice, and the misuse of technology — are not inevitable. They are the product of choices, and they can be changed by better ones. The Foundation exists to make those better choices possible, at scale, and with urgency.

Contact Joel & the Foundation

Whether you are a researcher, policymaker, journalist, potential partner, or simply someone who shares the Foundation's values — we want to hear from you.

Inquiry Types

General InquiryResearch CollaborationMedia & PressPartnership OpportunityVolunteer or InternshipDonation or FundingSpeaking EngagementPolicy & Advocacy