Nirina Randrianarisoa just started his Ph.D. in Economics at the University of Michigan.

We are excited to share that our recent graduate Nirina Randrianarisoa (Class of 2021) just started a Ph.D. in Economics at the University of Michigan!

He recently shared with us that one of the most influential classes he took at Trinity was Professor Clark’s International Trade course. This course included materials that extended beyond trade theory and models. For example, during class, Professor Clark led engaging discussions on how trade agreements may lead to uneven distribution of their benefits across different groups. It was this type of discussions that shaped Nirina’s decision to write a thesis on tariff reductions or eliminations and their impact on informal markets, with an empirical focus on Egypt and Kenya. After completing his thesis under the supervision of Professor Clark, Nirina decided to pursue a research path.

Eventually, he obtained a research assistant position at Princeton. Nirina was an ESOC Predoctoral Research Specialist and part of the first cohort of the Fellowship for Data-driven Research. His project at Princeton explored the impact of colonialism on contemporary social and political life in Madagascar.

Nirina began his Ph.D. in the Fall of 2023 and he plans to use remote sensed geo-spatial data such as nightlights, boat movements, emissions, and tree cover to answer questions relating to climate change, conflict, or even trade.

We wish Nirina the best of luck!