Rachel M. Heath

Professor at the Department of Economics at the University of Washington, Rachel M. Heath is an esteemed academic with a profound interest in development and labor economics. Since joining the faculty in 2011, she has dedicated her research to understanding and expanding labor market opportunities for women, particularly in developing countries. Her work is pivotal in examining how these opportunities influence women's lives and the socio-economic factors that drive their workforce participation. Rachel earned her Ph.D. in Economics from Yale University, where she developed a strong foundation in economic theory and empirical research methods. Her scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in the garment industry in Bangladesh, a sector that serves as a critical case study for her investigations into labor economics and development. Through her research, she seeks to unravel the complexities of hiring practices within firms and how these practices impact women's employment decisions. Her contributions to the field are not only academic but also practical, as she aims to provide insights that can inform policy-making and improve the economic conditions for women in developing regions. Rachel's work has been recognized for its depth and relevance, offering a nuanced understanding of the intersection between gender, labor markets, and economic development. In addition to her research, Professor Heath is committed to teaching and mentoring students, guiding the next generation of economists to explore and address pressing global economic challenges. Her courses often reflect her research interests, providing students with a comprehensive view of development economics and its real-world applications. Rachel's dedication to her field is evident in her numerous publications and presentations at international conferences, where she shares her findings and collaborates with other experts to further the discourse on labor economics and development. Her work continues to inspire and influence both her peers and students, making significant strides towards a more equitable global economy.