About
About Austin
I am a Lecturer in the Department of Economics at the University of Otago, where I teach Health Economics and Game Theory. My work uses randomised trials, longitudinal and observational designs, multi-site surveys, laboratory and online experiments, and evidence synthesis to answer practical questions about health programmes and policy.
Before joining Otago in 2025, I was a Research Assistant Professor at the Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine and the senior health economist on a large NIH-funded research programme. Across that work I designed analyses, evaluated interventions, linked economic and health outcomes, and collaborated with clinical, epidemiological, and community research teams.
I received a PhD in Management from the University of California San Diego's Economics and Strategic Management group and a BA in Economics from Pomona College.
I received the University of Otago Business School's 2025 Outstanding Early Career Researcher award. Outside work, I am an avid home brewer, cook, and fermenter.
Core expertise
How I approach research
Evaluation design
Define the decision, counterfactual, outcomes, and analysis before choosing the most proportionate design.
Quantitative analysis
Use transparent economic and statistical methods to estimate effects, uncertainty, costs, and value.
Useful communication
Translate technical results, limitations, and causal assumptions into evidence that decision-makers can act on.
Scientific advisory affiliation
Scientific Advisor to LuptonBio, New Zealand, 2026–present.
