Ankita Patnaik
About Ankita Patnaik
Ankita Patnaik is a Senior Researcher at Mathematica, where she has worked since 2021. She has a strong background in economics, holding a Ph.D. from Cornell University, and has experience in various research roles, including positions at Statistics Canada and Cornell University.
Current Role at Mathematica
Ankita Patnaik serves as a Senior Researcher at Mathematica, a position she has held since 2021. In this role, she focuses on programs designed to assist injured and ill workers in their return to work or in maintaining their employment. She is also involved in leading evaluations of initiatives that support youth with disabilities during their transition to adulthood. Her work emphasizes the importance of incorporating stakeholder input into study design and addressing evidence needs.
Previous Experience at Mathematica
Before her current position, Ankita Patnaik worked at Mathematica as a Researcher from 2015 to 2021. During this six-year tenure, she contributed to various research projects and initiatives, further developing her expertise in program evaluation and policy analysis. Her experience at Mathematica has equipped her with a strong foundation in conducting rigorous research that informs public policy.
Academic Background in Economics
Ankita Patnaik has an extensive academic background in economics. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Economics from Cornell University, where she studied from 2010 to 2015. Prior to that, she completed her Master’s Degree in Economics at the same institution from 2010 to 2012. Her undergraduate studies were completed at The University of Edinburgh, where she obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from 2006 to 2010.
Research and Dissemination Efforts
Ankita Patnaik is dedicated to disseminating research findings through various formats, including webinars, briefs, and Congressional briefings. She focuses on translating research results into actionable insights for change-makers, ensuring that her work has a practical impact on policy and program development. Her engagement with key stakeholders enhances the relevance and applicability of her research.
Teaching and Early Career Experience
Before her current roles, Ankita Patnaik gained valuable experience in academia. She worked as a Teaching Assistant at Cornell University from 2011 to 2014, where she supported the educational development of students. Additionally, she served as a Research Assistant at Cornell University from 2013 to 2015. Her early career also includes a position as a Summer Analyst at Deloitte UK in 2009, where she gained insights into economic analysis in a professional setting.