Maya is originally from Brooklyn. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Stanford University, a master’s degree in public administration from Columbia University, and a doctorate degree in politics from Oxford University. She lives in Brooklyn with her spouse and their child.

Maya currently works as a senior research fellow and manager in the Brennan Center for Justice’s elections and government program. She previously held positions at the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the United Nations Development Program, NYU GovLab, and Public Agenda. She has taught political science at New York University, Georgetown University, and American University, and is the author of Inside Congressional Committees.

Maya Kornberg's run for City Council in NYC District 39 is her first campaign for public office.