Joseph Vavra

Joseph Vavra, Associate Professor of Economics, studies macroeconomics and monetary economics, the influence of housing on the macroeconomy and the effects of regional business cycles on aggregate activity. In his recent research he argues that monetary policy is less effective during volatile recessions and that monetary policy actions such as QE1 during the Great Recession amplified inequality.

Vavra holds multiple degrees (Ph.D., M.Phil., M.A.) all in economics from Yale University. Additionally, he earned a B.A. (magna cum laude) in math, mathematical economic analysis, and statistics from Rice University.

In addition to Vavra’s teaching fellow and research assistant positions, he has experience working as an intern at the White House Council of Economic Advisors. His interests outside of economics include scuba diving, food, and travel.

2017 - 2018 Course Schedule

Other Interests

Food, scuba diving, snowboarding

Research Activities

My research interests are in empirical macroeconomics, business cycles and monetary policy, with a particular focus on the implications of microdata for aggregate phenomenon and on whether the same policies may have different effects if engaged during different phases of the business cycle.