Visiting Assistant Professor
Allegheny College, Quigley Hall 118
Meadville, PA 16335
hzhao@allegheny.edu
(814) 332-3337
Degrees: B.A., University of Colorado Denver, Economics. M.S., Boston University, Actuarial Science. Ph.D., University of Connecticut, Agricultural and Resource Economics
I am a visiting professor teaching Economic Statistics. My research area focuses on drug policies, the well-being of older adults, nutrition and health outcomes, utilizing causal inference methods such as Difference-in-Difference and Propensity Score Matching to provide critical evidence and suggestions on topics including OxyContin reformulation, gray divorce, and diet quality among older Americans.
My research aims to provide critical evidence and suggestions for developing new policies and assistance programs that account for spillover effects and unintended consequences. The goal is to demonstrate the impacts of various lifestyle choices of Americans and to provide policymakers with the necessary information to design effective policies that promote the well-being of Americans, particularly older adults.
Now, stepping away from economics for a moment, what do I enjoy during my off hours? Well, if you ever want a match of Ping-pong, I’m your person! I thoroughly enjoy the sport. Basketball is another passion of mine, where I confidently play as a small forward. When I’m not indulging in sports, you might find me in the kitchen, exploring new recipes and showing off my culinary skills.