Meet the Researchers: Amanda Phalin

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Without further ado, let's meet Amanda Phalin

•What is your name?

–Amanda Phalin

•Describe your research.

–I look at how solar energy is used in poorer countries, and how people who invent new types of solar energy products can protect their inventions. The fancy name for protecting inventions is called “intellectual property rights.”

•How did you get interested in what you are researching?

–I have always been interested in two things: how new ideas and technologies are created and spread, and the environment. My work combines both.

•How did you get to where you are today?

–It took me a long time! I started out going to school in economics, but I decided to be a journalist for about 10 years. I got tired of that, so I decided to go back to school and finish my studies in economics.

•What hobbies do you have?

–I am a brand new mom, so my hobby is hanging out with my husband and baby!

•Do you have any funny stories from when you were a young economist?

–My first economics teacher was bald. We all went away for spring break, and when we came back from vacation, he was wearing a toupee– a wig for men! He looked so silly that the whole class could barely keep from laughing, and even though he tried to teach, no one could pay attention. He never wore the wig again!

•What were some of your favorite activities as a kid?

–I was very involved in our local theater, and I loved acting and singing.

•Do you have any advice for the next generation?

–Don’t worry if you are not perfect or don’t make straight A’s. The important thing is to work as hard as you can and find something that you love to study!