Recognizing emerging scholars whose work contributes to
policy research, scholarly engagement, and public dialogue.
About
Emerging Policy Scholars is a Policy Studies Organization initiative recognizing early-career scholars whose work contributes to policy research, scholarly engagement, and public dialogue. The program highlights selected scholars and their research interests across areas such as environmental policy, food systems, governance, sustainability, and public development.
Program Focus
Research Visibility
Elevating early-career scholars and their contributions to pressing policy challenges.
Policy Engagement
Encouraging dialogue among scholars, practitioners, and decision makers.
Scholarly Community
Building a network that fosters collaboration, mentorship, and long-term impact.
2026 Scholar Cohort
The 2026 Scholar Cohort recognizes selected early-career scholars whose submitted abstracts and research interests reflect PSO’s commitment to policy research, scholarly engagement, and public dialogue.
Andrew (Daye) Zhai
Duke University
Focus Area
Environmental Policy; Crop Insurance; Water Quality
Paula J. Sarmiento
Duke University
Focus Area
Forest Governance; Carbon Offsets; Land Rehabilitation
Ignacio Oliva
UC Davis
Focus Area
Nature-Based Mitigation; Water Scarcity; Ecosystem Services
Lizah Makombore
University of Vermont
Focus Area
Agroecology; Sustainable Food Systems; Public Development Finance
Recognition Statement
The 2026 Emerging Policy Scholars cohort recognizes selected scholars for their research contributions and engagement with policy issues. Each scholar was selected based on submitted abstracts and research interests connected to the Emerging Policy Scholars initiative. PSO is pleased to highlight their work as part of our broader commitment to supporting policy research, scholarly exchange, and public dialogue.