James Sears

James Sears is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics at Michigan State University, part of the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, and an M.S. from Montana State University. His research focuses on environmental and consumer behavioral economics, particularly in urban water policy, nutrition assistance programs, and decision-making under constraints. He employs advanced econometric techniques and spatial data to evaluate policy impacts and consumer behavior.

Dr. Sears teaches data analytics and modern economics research methods at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Notably, he pioneered cloud-based econometric instruction at UC Berkeley, earning multiple teaching awards. His work has been published in prestigious journals like The American Journal of Health Economics and Transportation Research Part D, and covered by media outlets such as The Wall Street Journal.

His interdisciplinary research bridges microeconomics and policy design, addressing topics like water conservation strategies, the interplay between federal and local nutrition programs, and pandemic-related behavioral changes. He collaborates with policymakers and stakeholders to translate findings into actionable insights for equitable policy solutions.