His research focuses on the role of public postsecondary institutions—especially community and technical colleges—in creating and advancing educational and economic opportunities for socioeconomically disadvantaged students, adult-age students beginning in or returning to college, individuals returning to the community after incarceration, and other disadvantaged groups. Working closely with policymakers and institutional leaders, his research directly informs policy and practice aimed at reducing inequality, achieving educational attainment goals, improving workforce opportunities, and strengthening state economic vitality and growth.

Dr. Bahr currently serves as Vice President and Research Director for the Institute for the Future of Work at the Strada Education Foundation.