Matthew Mair, a senior economics and politics science double major at Appalachian State University, will participate in the Resilience and Adaptation to Coastal Change Across Communities (C2C) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program, jointly hosted by East Carolina University, Clemson University and the University of Puerto Rico – Arecibo.
Mair and fellow participants will form an interdisciplinary team to address challenges to our communities and coastlines under threat from diverse hazards, such as extreme weather, sea level rise, and population growth. They will work to increase the resilience of coastal regions and find solutions to help communities adapt to change.
According to a recent write up from App State's Honors College, Mair has a particular interest in sea level rise, as it pertains to climate change, and completed an internship at the NC Institute of Climate studies last summer. He is a 2020-21 Chancellor's Scholar and was part of App State's delegation to the United Nations Climate Change Conference. Mair was also a presenter at the Spring 2023 Dean's Club Lunch and Learn, where he spoke on The Effects of Expectations and Voluntary Redistribution on Cooperation.
“We are grateful to Dean’ Club and Barnes Student Research grant donors, as their support goes a long way in helping our students work on research that matters,” said Lakshmi Iyer, interim associate dean for graduate programs and research.
"Research programs like this one provide students with hands-on experience in economics and policy, help them develop analytical and critical thinking skills, and can have a tremendous impact on society" said App State Economics Chair Dave McEvoy. "I encourage others to follow Matthew's lead and take advantage of available opportunities to participate in undergraduate research experiences."
Students may find research opportunities on the Walker College of Business Student Research webpage, talk with their professors, or search for opportunities online from the National Science Foundation REU or other awarding organizations.
About the App State Economics Program
The Department of Economics in Appalachian State University's Walker College of Business is an intellectually vibrant place for students and faculty. As a research-intensive department committed to student learning, the department offers a wide range of courses that provide critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, complemented by student-faculty research collaboration. Our faculty members are engaged in research that contributes locally and globally in areas related to energy, environmental, development, trade, health, sports and tourism. The Department of Economics is ranked among the leading U.S. economics departments for research productivity, and is particularly strong in environmental and experimental economics. Learn more at economics.appstate.edu.
About Student Research in the Walker College of Business
As a means to supplement the classroom experience, fully develop students' capabilities, and enhance readiness for an ever-changing world, the Walker College supports project-based applied research and learning opportunities through partnerships with external entities, encourages research collaboration across departments, campus and other institutions, and promotes student involvement in faculty-led research. Learn more at business.appstate.edu/students/research.
Matthew Mair, a senior economics and politics science double major at Appalachian State University.
Photo of Matthew Mair