Joseph Hopper today announced the launch of Versta Research, a full service research firm specializing in customized market research and public opinion polling. Hopper has assumed the position of President and CEO, with responsibility for developing and managing all operations and research services.

“It’s a difficult time in this market, but a firm like Versta is well-positioned with a solid base of experience and intellectual capital. Our focus will be helping clients answer their questions efficiently, affordably, and with deep insight. These will always be the bedrock of our work,” says Hopper. “I am excited about the opportunities ahead for Versta Research, and about leading a firm that is dedicated to close, daily involvement from the most experienced researchers on the team. These are the kinds of partnerships that will win in this economy.”

Prior to Versta Research, Hopper was a senior associate for eight years at a full-service public opinion and market research firm, heading up business for clients in the public relations, financial services, health care, and not-for-profit sectors. Work for clients included Pfizer, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Ortho-McNeill, the American Academy of Pediatrics, GolinHarris, Ogilvy Worldwide Public Relations, Fidelity Investments, Wachovia, and TIAA-CREF. He has a strong record of accomplishment at building client relationships and advising top levels of management based on rigorous methods of research and analysis.

Hopper holds degrees in mathematics, philosophy, and sociology, with a Ph.D. from the University of Colorado in Boulder, and a B.A. from the University of Rochester. He is a former Harper Fellow and faculty member at the University of Chicago and National Opinion Research Center (NORC), where he headed major projects funded by professional grants from the National Institutes of Health.