Teaching and research focus
Transport Planning, Travel Behavior
What’s your academic and professional background?
I have a PhD in Transport Planning from the University of Alberta (Canada), Master's in Urban Planning from the University of Iowa, and Master's in Civil Engineering from Ternopil Ivan Puluj National Technical University (Ukraine). Most recently I worked in the research division of Oregon Metro (Portland Metropolitan Planning Agency).
What current research projects or initiatives are you working on? How do you hope they contribute to the field and address real-world challenges?
I'm a big believer in applied research. Among the projects that I'm currently working on are evaluation of the impact of free fares on Iowa City's transit, increasing efficiency of operations of battery-electric buses, and travel behavior of university and high school students.
What personal experience inspired you to study urban planning/public affairs?
I wanted my work to have a social purpose. Working as an engineer in the private sector didn't really provide many opportunities for that. In my search, I discovered planning (almost by accident) and fell in love with its driving force - advancing the public good.
What excites you most about your work?
As a researcher, I get most excited when I have to figure out a new way to answer a specific research question. It's like solving a puzzle that no one else worked on before. As an educator, I get excited when students want to go an extra mile and learn/work more than just for a grade.
What advice do you give students who are just starting their journey in planning or public affairs?
To constantly challenge yourself and never stop learning.
If your wish could be granted, what one thing related to your area of study would you like to see change in the world?
Direct application of advanced research to practice. Oftentimes, it feels like we know most of the answers, but path dependency prevents us from capitalizing on those.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I'm an avid reader, so nothing beats an opportunity to read a few pages. I also like sports - this year I want to run a half marathon and continue my rowing practice.
What’s your favorite music genre or era of music?
It depends on the week. I love jazz jam sessions that UI faculty host monthly, but I equally enjoyed the performance of St. Louis Symphony Orchestra last fall. You can also occasionally find me at an obscure rock band show.
What’s the best book you’ve read lately?
American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer, by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin
What is your favorite place to eat or spend time in the Iowa City area that you would recommend to students and visitors?
Baroncini Ristorante has better pasta than some places in Italy.