Welcome to my webpage!

I am an Associate Professor of Economics (with tenure) at the University of Lausanne.

My research works explore the roots and consequences of state capacity in public services delivery, regulation, and public infrastructure investment in both “developed” and “developing” countries.

One stream of my research focuses on the importance of culture in building state capacity. In particular, I have studied how historical shocks can impact the (contemporaneous) demand and supply sides of public services, through factors such as cultural norms, and beliefs in the state’s mission. My current research draws on philosophical perspectives to explore the normative justifications of states, from their formation to their implications for state capacity and individual private values.

Another stream of my research examines state capacity in a given contemporary context. In particular, I have investigated the effects of for-profit provision of public services on public procurement, regulation and contractual design.