Sarah Dallas DeFord has a M.S. in Applied Economics from Johns Hopkins University and a B.S. in Applied Mathematics and Business from Boise State University. She has over 3 years of experience as a research assistant performing data processing, analysis, and visualization using software such as Excel, MATLAB, ArcGIS Desktop, and STATA. She also has strong writing, editing, collaboration, and communication skills.

1. Sarah Dallas DeFord
(775) 220-8480 sddeford@gmail.com
QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY
- Proficient writing, editing, and researching skills.
- Demonstrated collaboration and teamwork capabilities.
- Competent communication skills through multiple mediums.
- Positive, detail-oriented, and a quick learner.
- Proven computer skills in Microsoft Office, ArcGIS Desktop, and statistical
programming packages.
EDUCATION
M.S. in Applied Economics from Johns Hopkins University, August 2016
Courses taken in spatial analysis, GIS applications, regional economics, environmental
and resource economics, and forecasting.
B.S. in Applied Mathematics and Business Minor from Boise State University, May 2014
Distinguished Honors, GPA 3.886
Courses taken in quantitative methodology, econometrics, data analysis, and statistics.
Senior thesis research involved database collection, maintenance, and manipulation, data
analysis, and reporting.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Research Assistant – Comparative Neural Systems and Behavior Lab, Johns Hopkins University
(October 2014 – present)
- Performed data processing using Excel, MATLAB, and motion capture analysis software.
- Effectively communicated with graduate students and postdoctoral fellows concerning
their processing needs.
- Helped coordinate data processing and meet requirements and deadlines.
- Created and maintained detailed research logs and organized metadata.
- Helped update the lab website by reviewing and editing .html documents.
- Created graphics and figures for research papers as requested.
Research Assistant – Department of Geosciences, Boise State University
(September 2013 – May 2014)
- Acquired and manipulated large datasets from the Idaho Department of Water Resources.
- Performed data analysis and queries using Excel, STATA, and ArcGIS Desktop software.
- Compiled and managed detailed research logs and authored a comprehensive report of
findings, methodology, graphics, and conclusions for Principle Investigator Dr. Cobourn.
- Orally presented a summary of research at the Boise State Undergraduate Research
Conference.
Student Research Initiative Fellowship – Boise State University
(August 2013 – January 2014)
- In collaboration with teammates, compiled and developed a large country-wide, county-
level dataset in Excel and STATA, assured quality and consistency, performed an
analysis, and created visualizations and graphics for a poster presentation.