Published on April 11, 2025 – Updated on April 14, 2025

Rida Ali Khan is sharing her experience as a PhD student in Economics at the CERDI.

Can you introduce yourself?

My name is Rida, I am a PhD student in Economics at CERDI, a joint research center of the Université Clermont Auvergne, the CNRS and the IRD.

I focus my research on the various impact of natural disasters and conflicts on education. My country, Pakistan, was devastated by floods in 2010. I study the consequences of this catastrophe on children development and learning outcomes.

The key motivation behind applying here was the main focus of the CERDI in development economics and the emphasis on policy relevant research that aligns with my goals of providing impactful work that informs evidence policymaking. I am lucky to work closely with experienced researchers, to have access to high quality datasets and to improve my econometric skills. Francesca Marchetta and Eric Roca Fernandez, my supervisors and mentors, are angels to me. Whenever I have a problem or issue with my research, they give me more than enough time to help me solve it.

Before joining the team, where were you and what were you doing?

Last year, I was in South Korea. I completed my master's degree in public policy at the Korean Development Institute (KDI). I was also a consultant for the KDI and the World Bank, I was affiliated to the ImpactAI team who redefines impact evaluation by developing new tools for policymakers and development experts. 

I explore issues related to shocks caused by natural disasters or conflicts hitting vulnerable populations and making their situation more precarious. I analyze how those catastrophic events affect their access to education and to health, and their well-being.

What are your plans for the future?

For now, I am dedicating all my energy to my PhD work. I arrived in Clermont by the end of last year, I'm still in the midst of acclimating to my new surroundings. But, I am already deeply engaged in my research. I explore the literature and work on the data, I am trying to figure out the proper impact of the variables. I examine the first results …

Indeed, I am also thinking about new projects and collaborations.

After graduating, I have two options, join the academia or an international organization. I would love to join an international institution to assist and contribute to development programs and design efficient policies for the betterment of developing countries and to protect the most vulnerable population.

Follow Rida on LinkedIn.