Thor D
- Research Program Mentor

PhD at University of Washington

Expertise

Economics, Transportation, Urban Planning, Data Science, Climate Change

Bio

I studied economics because of my interest in the accelerating progress of technology and the mounting social problems such as climate change, inequality, and systematic oppression. I believe economics is a powerful way of looking at the world and understanding why things happen. The structures and systems we build shape our decisions and guide the course of society. I utilized my time in graduate school to learn about economic theory and statistics, hone my critical thinking and ability to understand complex systems, develop a research mindset, strengthen my coding skills, and engage with a diverse group of people from all over the world to challenge my views and form lasting friendships. I currently work at the Federal Highway Administration as an economist estimating the National Highway Construction Cost Index, cost of highway externalities, and a variety of other projects. I live in Washington DC with my girlfriend and dog. I enjoy spending time at the local parks, walking to the farmers/artisan market, playing tennis, playing piano and guitar, and playing computer games with my friends.

Project ideas

Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.

Earth's Health Gauges

Develop a set of metrics for understanding how Earth is doing with regards to environmental factors, human rights fulfillment, and other key wellness criteria.

Coding skills

python, R, some html and java

Teaching experience

I've taught introductory, intermediate, and advanced economics courses at the University of Washington. I also mentored several college students with research projects or internships.

Credentials

Work experience

Federal Highway Administration (2021 - Current)

Economist

Education

Oregon State University

BA Bachelor of Arts (2014)

Economics and Mathematics

University of Washington

MA Master of Arts (2017)

Economics