Welcome!

I am a student of Political Science at The Pennsylvania State University, expecting to complete my doctoral degree in December 2009. I am also a research fellow at the Niehaus Center for Globalization and Governance at Princeton University, until July 2010.

My research agenda centers on the interactions between politics and foreign direct investment (FDI). In my dissertation I examine the relationship between FDI and political violence, showing that investors across industries differ systematically in both reactions to and impacts on conflict. In other projects, I study the effect of political regimes and institutions on foreign investors, as well as the consequences of foreign capital on individual welfare in developing countries.

Teaching is also very important to me. Having benefited from a liberal arts education at a small college, I understand the value of imparting knowledge while also encouraging independent, critical thinking. In addition to continuing my research, I hope to grow into a good teacher and mentor to my students.