Professor Pless’s research interests are in the economics of innovation, energy and environmental economics, and public economics. Her research explores the drivers and consequences of innovation for social progress through an economics lens, with a particular focus on understanding how policy and management can drive clean energy innovation and innovation that protects environmental systems more broadly. Prior to joining MIT, she held positions with the University of Oxford, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the National Conference of State Legislatures and the World Bank. Professor Pless holds an MS and PhD in mineral and energy economics from the Colorado School of Mines, and a BA in economics and political science from the University of Vermont.