In addition to basic courses in economic theory, Jim teaches courses on international economics, 制度经济学, and econometrics at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Jim's research focuses on institutional determinants of economic development. 在这方面, he has published and forthcoming articles on the determinants of civil war, the impact of civil war on 经济增长, and the impact of civil war on cultural attitudes towards women. He has also investigated the role of institutions in determining migration, 汇款, 性别规范.
Some of Jim's more recent work has focused more on predictive modeling using machine learning. Machine learning is widely and increasingly relevant for business data analytics for things like targeted advertising (Google, 例如) and suggesting content or products to consumers (Netflix, 亚马逊, 例如). 在吉姆的研究中, he applies this technique for prediction to civil war, 经济增长, 以及医疗保健结果.
在他空闲的时候, Jim helps coach his sons' sports teams, 是幼童军的领队, 喜欢烹饪.