Economics Research
My passion for Economics has led me to work on 2 impactful projects:
Independent Research, The Market Dynamics Of Graphene and its Practical Applications
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Abstract:
Graphene is a novel nanomaterial, discovered only recently in 2004. It is also known as a “wonder” material
due its vast array of applications in various fields. While there are multiple ways in which graphene can be
manufactured, the economics of these methods are not understood nor researched very thoroughly. This
paper aims to analyze the market dynamics of graphene manufacturing, via Chemical Vapor Disposition (CVD) and Electrolytic Exfoliation (EE), while also exploring the practical applications of graphene, particularly focused around water filters and Li-ion batteries through the lens of sustainability.
By developing an industrial-scale cost model for graphene manufacturing via CVD and a theoretical cost
model for manufacturing via EE, the research shows that graphene obtained via CVD is 60 times more
expensive than graphene obtained via EE.
This paper has immense relevance today due to the sheer lack of economics-centered research on this topic.
Evaluating MSD India’s Pricing Strategy of Oncology Drug Keytruda
Abstract:
This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the Indian oncology sector with a particular emphasis on
Keytruda (Pembrolizumab), an anti-PD-1 therapy marketed by Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD). PD-1/PD-L1
inhibitors are a class of cancer immunotherapy drugs that work by targeting specific proteins in the immune
system to enhance the body's ability to fight cancer.
Given the critical role of chemotherapy drugs in cancer
treatment and the rising incidence of cancer in India, this paper aims to dissect the pricing strategy of Keytruda. Initially, the paper assesses the global oncology landscape, emphasizing market size, growth drivers, and cancer incidence, before narrowing the focus to the Indian oncology market, drawing correlations between economic factors and cancer treatment affordability.
The analysis highlights the significant price disparity between Keytruda and its competitors, as well as its affordability in the context of Indian household income levels. Utilizing economic metrics, a pricing sensitivity analysis is conducted to propose feasible price reductions that could enhance patient access to Keytruda. Ultimately, this research aims to provide actionable insights that could guide MSD toward an optimized pricing model, facilitating better patient access and potentially saving 15x more lives.