What attracted you to the health metrics field?
My previous research experiences were highly technical, mostly testing and developing materials and products in the early stages of product development. Though I thoroughly enjoyed my work with semiconductors and cell electroporation, I felt my research was removed from society and far away from consumer use. Health metrics provided the unique opportunity to combine my interests in science and the social sciences while working in a field that applies to everyday life.
What work are you doing at IHME?
As a part of the Optimal Resource Allocation research team, I help develop a simulation and optimization tool that can aid decision-makers in health investments. This tool seeks to give policymakers more information about the potential impact of their decisions by analyzing the consequences of policy choices. The tool can help in determining which policy choices are best for the population, given political and budget constraints, by showing the cost effectiveness and tradeoffs of different health services.
How do you think your experience at IHME will contribute to your future work?
I would like to research disease detection and diagnostics at a research laboratory. With the knowledge of the global health field and the critical thinking and modeling skills I develop at IHME, I will be better prepared as a researcher to develop applicable and much-needed diagnostic tests and equipment.
