Barry Watson

Barry Watson is an Associate Professor of Economics at Acadia University. He holds a B.S. from University of New Brunswick (2003), M.S. from University of New Brunswick (2006), and Ph.D. from Dalhousie University (2015). His research examines health economics, labor economics, applied econometrics, and well-being, with focus on economic vulnerability and inequality.

Research explores connections between economic insecurity and health outcomes, labor market dynamics, and Indigenous economic disparities. Current projects investigate COVID-19's impact on BMI and university aspirations under economic vulnerability.

Publications frequently employ longitudinal data to analyze health behaviors during economic crises and policy impacts on marginalized communities. Methodological strengths include econometric decomposition techniques and panel data analysis.

Funding and Service:

• SSHRC Insight Development Grant: "Nutrition North Canada" ($50,000)
• New Brunswick Department of Social Development grants ($281,180; $994,981)
• President of Atlantic Canada Economics Association (2019-2021)
• Board Member of Canadian Economics Association

Supervises graduate theses on immigrant income gaps, environmental racism, and health economics. Teaches macro/micro theory, health economics, labor economics, and quantitative methods.