I am an Assistant Professor of Economics at Michigan Technological University where I  currently teach undergraduate economics courses. The overarching goal of my research is to contribute to the ongoing discussion regarding the dynamics of labor market disparities and how various shocks and public policies impact labor market outcomes across different populations, with a particular emphasis on gender. I earned my undergraduate degrees in economics and mathematics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I received my PhD in economics from the University of Alabama. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, reading, boating, skiing, and watching college football and basketball games. 

My research projects on the interaction between public policy and labor market dynamics typically focus on trade or health policies, such as the China trade shock or the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Several projects also explore whether policies differentially impact various populations in the labor market, connecting my two areas of emphasis. My work on labor outcomes across different populations often focuses on gender, but also considers other demographic characteristics such as race and ethnicity, marital status, and health status. Overall, my research is often collaborative in nature and applies to areas including economics, public policy, management, and public administration.

​

---

 If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me. 

Laura Connolly
email: leconn@mtu.edu
​office: (906) 487-2809