William Masters

William Masters is a Professor at Tufts University, holding dual appointments in the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy and the Department of Economics. His research focuses on agriculture, food systems, and nutrition policy, with a particular emphasis on global food security and sustainable diets. He co-authored the textbook Food Economics: Agriculture, Nutrition, and Health and leads the Food Prices for Nutrition project, which analyzes the cost and affordability of healthy diets globally.

Education: PhD in Economics from Stanford University (1991), BA from Yale University (1984), and ND from Deep Springs College (1981). Prior to Tufts, he taught at Purdue University and held roles at institutions like the University of Zimbabwe and Harvard's Kennedy School. He served as editor-in-chief of Agricultural Economics (2006–2011) and has been recognized with multiple awards from the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association (AAEA).

Research Interests: Economics of food systems, policy analysis for agriculture and nutrition, climate impacts on food security, and international development strategies. His work bridges theoretical economic models with practical policy solutions to improve global health outcomes and reduce disparities in access to nutritious food.

Scientific Awards: Bruce Gardner Memorial Prize (2013), AAEA Fellow, and various awards for research excellence and communication. His contributions to teaching were acknowledged with University-wide awards in 2019 and 2022.

Professional Activities: Active in global initiatives like the Annual Bank Conference on Development Economics and the ANH Academy. Engages in public discourse through social media, emphasizing evidence-based policy and sustainable food systems.