Matilyn (Mattie) Bindl
I am pursuing a PhD in Environment and Resources and a certificate in Energy Analysis and Policy. My research uses integrated assessment models to understand the scale-up potential, policy implications, and equity impacts of negative emissions technologies. As a long-time Badger, I earned my MS in Environment and Resources in 2022 and BS in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences in 2019 from UW-Madison. Outside of the lab, I enjoy baking, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.
Zachary Thomas
I am a master’s student in the Nelson Institute’s Environment and Resources Program. My research examines the effects of corporate venture capital on clean-tech startup growth and its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions reductions. I began researching clean-tech innovation at the Center for Global Sustainability at the University of Maryland after graduating in 2019 with a B.S. in Physics and B.A. in Government and Politics.
Jake Erickson
I am pursuing a joint PhD in Agricultural and Applied Economics and Environment and Resources. My research focuses on measuring and modeling the equity impacts of clean energy transitions. Previously, I worked in energy consulting, conducted field research on energy access in sub-Saharan Africa, and led environmental curriculum development projects in the Marshall Islands. When not coding in R or going down equity metric rabbit-holes, I enjoy biking or running around lake Wanaka, working in the garden, or re-watching Lord of the Rings with my wife and two cats.
Raines Lucas
I am an undergraduate studying Economics, Math, and Chinese. I am interested in modeling the interaction of environmental change and the global economy. I'm especially passionate about the future of sustainable food production and the possibility of local, self-provisioning economies. My current research develops statistical models in areas such as aviation and agricultural technology. Outside the lab you'll find me hiking, playing music, or cooking!
Jaime Garibay Rodriguez
I am a Postdoc at La Follette School of Public Affairs. My research focuses on modeling and optimizing sustainable energy transition systems, particularly related to meeting building energy demands. I obtained my Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering working in the modeling and mathematical optimization of sustainable systems, with applications in water management and waste-to-energy. Previously, I was a Research Assistant at the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research (UFZ) in Leipzig, Germany.
Jing Ling Tan
I am pursuing a Master’s in International Public Affairs and a certificate in Energy Analysis and Policy. My research focuses on environmental policies and politics - with current emphasis on heat pump policy adoption in the U.S. Previously, I was a Research Assistant at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, and studied in Sciences Po and the National University of Singapore. Outside the lab, I can be found across a chess board, on a bicycle, or browsing my next travel destination.
Kyla Smith
I am pursing my master’s degree in Environment and Resources and a certificate in Energy Analysis and Policy. My research looks into equity implications of housing electrification through quantitative, qualitative, and community based methodologies. I also engage in multiple community based projects with Urban Triage and Sustain Dane, focusing on energy and environmental education. Outside of academics, I love to read romance and sci-fi novels, hang out with my cats and partner, and spend time in nature.
Nilanjan Biswas
I am a master’s student in the Nelson Institute's Environment and Resources program. My research interests lie in global energy transition scenarios and the feasibility and impact of fossil fuel phase out. After my BS in Chemical Engineering, I garnered valuable experience in the oil, gas, and energy industry. After my MBA, I also ventured into supply chain consulting, where I assisted clients in devising and implementing sustainable solutions. Outside the lab, you will find me cooking, biking, sketching, or painting.
Francie Fink
I am pursuing a Master’s in Public Affairs with a certificate in Energy Analysis and Policy. Since graduating from the University of Notre Dame with a BS in Environmental Sciences, my workplace projects have focused on equitable program design at the municipal level for residential energy efficiency and electrification. I am excited to continue analyzing policies and technology for a just energy transition. In my free time, I enjoy running, watching re-runs of Survivor, and spending time outdoors with friends and loved ones!