As a Doctoral Student in the Department of Economics at Texas Tech University, United States of America, I deeply value a multidisciplinary approach to research, recognizing that the complexities of global challenges often require insights from various fields. By integrating perspectives from economics, environmental science, public policy, and related disciplines, I aim to develop well-rounded and effective solutions to pressing issues such as poverty, health, education, and climate change.
I am also committed to evidence-based research, believing that rigorous, data-driven analysis is essential for crafting policies that are both impactful and sustainable. Through meticulous research methods, I strive to ensure that my findings contribute to informed decision-making and have a tangible real-world impact. My ultimate goal is to leverage my expertise to address critical societal needs and drive meaningful change, both in my academic work and in broader policy discussions.
Growing up in a developing but resilient country, I was surrounded by people with extraordinary potential and determination. Even though the environment presented unique challenges—such as limited access to opportunities compared to more advanced economies—I never saw these circumstances as a disadvantage. Instead, they became a powerful source of strength and motivation, shaping my belief that excellence can emerge from any context and that meaningful change often begins in places where the odds are not always in one’s favor.
I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, where I graduated in the top 1% of my class. During this period, I held several leadership positions, including President of the Nigerian Economics Students Association and Regional Director for Learned Minds, and received multiple academic and leadership awards—among them the prestigious “Brain of the Year Award” for the Class of 2020, selected from a cohort of over 386 students.
More About Me
Today, as a Doctoral Student and Instructor in the Department of Economics at Texas Tech University, I combine my passion for economics with a deep commitment to data-driven research and impactful teaching. My research interests span applied microeconomics, industrial organization, causal inference, energy and health economics. I am particularly drawn to these fields because they reflect more than academic interests to me—they are areas I deeply love, appreciate, and see as powerful tools to address real-world problems through evidence-based insights and innovative solutions.
Alongside my research, I am a born teacher with over four years of experience teaching economics and mathematics to undergraduate students and mentoring young learners. Teaching is not just a profession for me—it is a calling. It allows me to democratize knowledge, inspire curiosity, and equip the next generation of problem solvers with critical and analytical thinking skills.
At the core of my work is the belief that high-quality research and evidence-based policy can meaningfully transform societies. Beyond academia, I am a strong advocate for inclusive and equitable education, aligning my efforts with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education). I have volunteered as an educator for over 1,000 students, particularly those from marginalized and underserved communities, where access to education can be truly life-changing.
My deep commitment to education fuels my policy-driven research orientation. My goal is not only to generate high-quality evidence but also to translate research into actionable policy recommendations that advance human capital development, reduce inequality, address environmental challenges, and foster economic transformation. Through teaching, research, and policy engagement, I aim to contribute to building stronger, more equitable systems that create opportunities for all.
As an evidence-driven economist and educator, I envision a future where my expertise serves as a bridge between rigorous research, effective policy, and human impact. Whether as a researcher, professor, or consultant, I am committed to producing and communicating knowledge that drives meaningful, measurable change across societies.
I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, where I graduated in the top 1% of my class. During this period, I held several leadership positions, including President of the Nigerian Economics Students Association and Regional Director for Learned Minds, and received multiple academic and leadership awards—among them the prestigious “Brain of the Year Award” for the Class of 2020, selected from a cohort of over 386 students.
My interest in applied microeconomics is driven by a commitment to empirically verify and test core theoretical frameworks that explain how individuals, firms, and institutions behave in strategic settings. I focus on using formal models from game theory, signaling, mechanism design, and contract theory to structure research questions and then apply robust datasets and modern econometric methods to examine and refine these theoretical predictions. By integrating theory with evidence, my goal is to produce rigorous, policy-relevant research that not only advances economic understanding but also provides clear, actionable insights for policymakers and institutions in both developed and developing economies.
My interest in applied microeconomics is driven by a commitment to empirically verify and test core theoretical frameworks that explain how individuals, firms, and institutions behave in strategic settings. I focus on using formal models from game theory, signaling, mechanism design, and contract theory to structure research questions and then apply robust datasets and modern econometric methods to examine and refine these theoretical predictions. By integrating theory with evidence, my goal is to produce rigorous, policy-relevant research that not only advances economic understanding but also provides clear, actionable insights for policymakers and institutions in both developed and developing economies.
I am fascinated by industrial organization because it allows me to explore the dynamics of pricing, competition, antitrust policy, and market structure. My interest lies in understanding how markets function, how firms behave under competitive pressure, and how regulation can promote or distort efficiency. This field excites me because it connects theoretical frameworks with real market behavior, offering practical tools to evaluate and design effective competition policies. I see industrial organization as a bridge between economics, business strategy, and public policy—an area that can shape fairer and more efficient markets.
I am fascinated by industrial organization because it allows me to explore the dynamics of pricing, competition, antitrust policy, and market structure. My interest lies in understanding how markets function, how firms behave under competitive pressure, and how regulation can promote or distort efficiency. This field excites me because it connects theoretical frameworks with real market behavior, offering practical tools to evaluate and design effective competition policies. I see industrial organization as a bridge between economics, business strategy, and public policy—an area that can shape fairer and more efficient markets.
Causal inference stands at the core of my research identity, where I combine theoretical microeconomics, econometric identification, and structural modeling to uncover genuine cause-and-effect relationships that inform policy. I approach causality not merely as an empirical exercise but as a theory-driven process that links behavioral assumptions to real-world mechanisms. By integrating tools such as instrumental variables, difference-in-differences, and structural estimation within policy-relevant frameworks, I aim to move beyond correlations and make credible claims about how policies and incentives truly shape economic outcomes.
Causal inference represents one of my strongest research passions because it embodies the intersection of econometrics, data science, and machine learning. I am driven by the quest to go beyond correlation and uncover true causal relationships that inform meaningful decisions. I view causal inference not just as a technical skill, but as a powerful research philosophy—a commitment to rigor, transparency, and credibility. By applying advanced empirical strategies and machine learning methods, I aim to answer complex policy and market questions with clarity and precision.
I am deeply passionate about health and energy economics because these fields sit at the heart of climate action, environmental sustainability, and human well-being. My research interest lies in analyzing how energy systems, environmental changes, and health outcomes intersect, and how data-driven economic insights can inform policies that advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Through this work, I aim to contribute to building resilient health systems, promoting clean energy transitions, and supporting evidence-based climate strategies that protect both people and the planet.
I am deeply passionate about health and energy economics because these fields sit at the heart of climate action, environmental sustainability, and human well-being. My research interest lies in analyzing how energy systems, environmental changes, and health outcomes intersect, and how data-driven economic insights can inform policies that advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Through this work, I aim to contribute to building resilient health systems, promoting clean energy transitions, and supporting evidence-based climate strategies that protect both people and the planet.
Wasiu is a natural leader and an effective communicator who excels in building meaningful connections. He is an exceptional individual with a profound understanding of global economic dynamics, complemented by his studies in Economics and extensive analytical and research expertise. His intelligence and critical thinking skills are evident in the depth of his research, which consistently addresses real-world problems with innovative solutions.
Akintunde Wasiu is a result oriented person, with 100 per cent dedication and commitment. His professionalism is topnotch. Wasiu is a person who has motivated a lot of people, including students, who have passed through him. He is also a role model to many students out there who are motivated by his actions and professionalism.
Having worked closely with him for many years, I can confidently attest to his exceptional leadership qualities and his ability to inspire those around him. Jide has consistently demonstrated remarkable dedication, resilience, and a natural talent for fostering collaboration, even in challenging situations. His ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and approach problems with innovative solutions sets him apart as a true leader. He has shown great potential for diplomacy through his thoughtful decision-making, empathy, and commitment to creating a positive impact in his community.
BABAJIDE has to be the most intelligent person i have ever come across. Asides his intelligence, he has really great leadership skills and knows how to bring people together. He is more than fit for any position and i can vouch that he will become a valuable asset.
