MAHA REHMAN
Welcome to my website. Here you will find a brief introduction to my ongoing research.
My research focuses on the dynamics of economic and social networks in developing countries, with an emphasis on how they shape industrial strategies and the delivery of public services during crises. By analysing micro-level interventions and their outcomes, I investigate the interplay between network structures, institutional efficiency, and economic impacts. I utilise experimental and quasi-experimental evaluation methodologies, alongside tools from empirical industrial organisation, to identify institutional constraints and misaligned incentives. By integrating these insights with rigorous empirical analysis and economic theory, I design and test solutions that address these challenges and inform effective policy-making.
In 2024, I setup Policy Lab with the objective of providing scientific and actionable insights for policy making in Developing Countries. Using a tiered experimental approach comprising randomised control trials, A/B testing and actionable policy insights, the Lab will induce scientific discipline in the art of policymaking in developing countries. We work with policymakers in different tiers of the government to provide scientific research and evidence that will be readily deployed. I taught Economics at the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) from 2019-2022 and served as the Director of Policy at the Mahbub-ul-Haq Research Centre at LUMS during the same period.
From 2020 to 2022, I led a comprehensive analytical response to COVID-19 in Pakistan. This included tracking disease incidence, macroeconomic and microeconomic indicators, predicting outbreaks and most importantly evaluating the effectiveness of various policies through quantitative experimental and quasi-experimental methods.
Prior to this, I established an Evaluations Wing at a premier research center focused on embedding data in the decision-making processes and operations of private and public sector organizations to enhance efficiency, impact, and profit.
I frequently contribute to DAWN and other daily publications and blogs. My articles have been featured in Herald, DAWN.com, Indian Express, Nepali Times, The Daily Star, World Bank's "End Poverty in South Asia," IGC, and IDEAS Policy Blogs.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maharehman11/
Bluesky Handle: @maharehman.bsky.social
Medium: https://medium.com/@maharehman/about