Morgan C. Williams, Jr.

Morgan C. Williams, Jr. is an Assistant Professor of Economics at Barnard College, Columbia University, focusing on the economic consequences of crime and incarceration policy in the United States with emphasis on racial inequality. His research examines determinants of racial disparities in homicide and policing, and impacts of criminal history disclosure on labor market outcomes and recidivism.

Education

• B.A., Morehouse College
• M.P.H., Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
• Ph.D., City University of New York Graduate Center

Research Interests

His work spans Economics of Crime, Economics of Race, Health Economics, and Labor Economics, investigating intersections of economics, public health, and criminal justice. Key methodologies include econometric analysis of policy reforms and natural experiments to identify causal effects on racial disparities.

Research Trends

Publications (2017-2024) consistently analyze race-crime-policy linkages, with recent work on proactive policing effects, discrimination detection in criminal justice, and life-cycle health impacts of education. His studies frequently leverage policy changes (e.g., Missouri gun laws) to evaluate causal mechanisms behind racial inequities.

Scientific Awards

• Russell Sage Foundation (RSF) Visiting Scholar Fellowship (2024-25)
• New York University Provost’s Postdoctoral Fellowship
• NBER Predoctoral Fellowship
• MIT Predoctoral Fellowship
• U.S. Fulbright Scholar Award

Grants and Teaching

Research supported by Russell Sage Foundation and Robert Wood Johnson Policies for Action Initiative. Teaches Race, Crime, and Incarceration Policy, Econometrics, and Health Economics, indicating active mentorship. Currently on sabbatical (2024-26 academic years).