Can you describe the research you’re working on as part of TIME-AD?

I am investigating whether alcohol use changes the risk of aging-related outcomes, starting with depression risk. We are using a causal inference approach, specifically instrumental variables, to account for the fact that people who drink (more) may differ from those who do not drink (as much).

What’s been the most exciting or rewarding aspect of your research to date?

I love working with and learning from talented junior researchers, who bring new ideas, new ways of working, and a willingness to ask questions I take for granted. I’ve been lucky to work with two talented junior researchers on TIME-AD so far: Peter Buto and Peiyu Yu.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Board games, hiking

What drew you to science in the first place?

A belief that research can influence public policy to improve lives of the less fortunate

If you weren’t a scientist, what do you think you’d be doing?

Lawyer? I like to argue arcane details.

What’s a book, podcast, or movie you’ve loved recently?

The Ministry of Utmost Happiness by Arundhati Roy