Michelle is interested in conducting research at the intersection of climate change, economic development, and public policy. In particular, she seeks to apply frameworks from economic theory and quantitative techniques to evaluate effective, equitable, and site-specific strategies for mitigating risks associated with environmental change.

Michelle’s previous research projects include studies on the effect of uncertainty on climate change adaptation policy-making and the relationship between natural disasters on human migration. Prior to her doctoral studies, Michelle worked as a senior research analyst in the energy practice of The Brattle Group, a Boston-based economic consulting firm. In this role, she supported stakeholders in the energy sector through electricity market modelling and policy design research. She also serves as the Director of Entrepreneur Relationships of FoodCrunch, a non-profit organization aimed at building a network of resources for food system entrepreneurs.

She holds a B.A. in Economics (with high honors), Environmental Studies, and Mathematics from Wesleyan University, where she was a presidential fellow of Wesleyan’s College of the Environment.