Alexander Fertig, Economics

Name:

Alexander Fertig

Title:

Assistant Professor

Department:

Economics

Describe your research in about 200 words.

I am a development economist focusing broadly on topics related to migration and conflict. In my most recent work, I study the impacts of the internet and social media in conflict settings, while a second strand of my research investigates the impacts of international migration on migrant origin countries. A common theme that runs through my work is the dual nature of economic, political, and technological change, i.e., interventions intended to expand opportunity or agency can also reinforce existing power structures. My research aims to identify the conditions under which such policies and innovations succeed or fail, and to generate evidence that can guide more effective and equitable development policy. Methodologically, my work comprises a mix of experimental and quasi-experimental approaches to answer causal questions in economics and political science.

What’s the most interesting thing you have learned from a student?

I’ve been fortunate to work with students and RAs from all over the world, and they’ve taught me a great deal about the history and politics of their home countries.