Welcome! I am a Postdoctoral Research Scholar in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at NC State University. My research focuses on Agricultural Economics and International Trade. I am also interested in policy and new technology adoption-driven agricultural research that advances the security and safety of the food supply chain and enhances farmers' income and welfare.
I will be on the job market in the 2025–2026 academic year.

Please feel free to reach me at yshan4@ncsu.edu and here is my CV.

Employment

  • Postdoctoral Research Scholar, Agricultural and Resource Economics Department, NC State University, Feb 2025 – present
  • Research Assistant, China Center for Agricultural Policy, Peking University, Jun 2018 – Jun 2019

Education

  • Ph.D. in Economics, NC State University, 2019–2025
  • M.S. in Applied Mathematics, Northeastern University, 2015–2017
  • B.S. in Mathematics and Economics, University of Delaware, 2011–2015

Research Fields

  • Agricultural Economics and International Trade

Publications

  • Shan, Y., Han, J. H., Hoffmann, M., & Tregeagle, D. (2026). The California Strawberry Nursery Industry: Overview, Challenges, and the Prospects of Controlled Environment Agriculture. International Journal of Fruit Science, 26(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/15538362.2026.2614139

Job Market Papers

Title: The Unexamined Effects of China’s Belt and Road FDI for Recipient Countries

Abstract: Since 2013, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has led to an increase in China’s outward foreign direct investments (OFDI) and investment via Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) in various sectors worldwide. While studies have shown BRI as a main driver for China’s OFDI growth, this paper examines its influence on other countries’ decisions to invest in BRI and non-BRI beneficiary countries. The research indicates China’s OFDI and M&A positively impact other countries’ investment in recipients, especially non-BRI nations.

Title: Driving Under Pressure: Examining the Relationship Between Facility Detention and Truck Speed Patterns (Under Review at Transport Policy)

Abstract: This study examines the relationship between truck driver detention, defined as delays over two hours at a facility, and driving speeds. Using GPS data and quantile regression, we find that detention is positively correlated with higher speeds among slower drivers. This association diminishes for faster drivers. Detention-related speed increases are most pronounced shortly before the visit and after departure, raising safety concerns as some speeds exceed posted limits. While not causal, these findings suggest detention may be linked to risky driving behavior. Industry and policy responses aimed at reducing detention may support safer and more efficient freight movement.