Lawrence Kessler

Lawrence Kessler is a Research Professor at the Boyd Center Business and Economic Research, University of Tennessee. His primary affiliation is with the Boyd Center, where he focuses on applied economic research with interdisciplinary applications in public health, tax policy, and labor markets. He holds an Orcid identifier (0000-0002-2953-8838) and collaborates extensively with external organizations and academic networks.

Research Interests: Dr. Kessler’s work spans applied economics, health policy, and tax policy. He investigates topics such as opioid epidemic consequences, tax deduction impacts on housing markets, and workforce dynamics post-pandemic. His research integrates quantitative methods like econometrics and reinforcement learning to address policy challenges. Recent projects highlight his focus on optimizing substance use treatment allocations and evaluating broadband expansion benefits in Tennessee.

Grants & Service: Dr. Kessler has led numerous sponsored projects, including studies on Tennessee’s economic reports for the Governor, electric vehicle industry impacts, and nonprofit sector analysis. Funded by entities like the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and the National Wild Turkey Federation, his work aids policymakers in evidence-based decision-making. He also engages in community outreach through speaking engagements at events like the Tennessee Municipal League Legislative Conference and the Knoxville Estate Planning Council.

Key Contributions: His articles address critical issues such as overdose prevention, tax policy effects, and labor market resilience. Notable outputs include a 2025 study on overdose deaths and a 2023 analysis of post-pandemic workforce implications. These works reflect his dedication to bridging academic research with real-world policy solutions.