Serra Lab promotes research on sustainable development, in Africa as elsewhere, with the aim to contribute to solutions that are economically meaningfully, socially and culturally inclusive, and environmentally sustainable. Research projects within the Lab, while different by themes and regional interests, share the common goal of understanding global dynamics (economic globalization and polarizations, climate change, migration flows, security challenges, etc.) and their effects on societies and well-being. Through insights from institutional theory, behavioral economics, global value chain analyses and system approaches, projects examine how individuals and collectives shape and interact with those global forces. While incorporating multiple disciplinary angles, we mainly rely on the approaches and methods derived from the social sciences and mixed quantitative and qualitative methods. We adhere to the principles of participatory research and pursue equitable and respectful collaborations. Serra Lab offers a space for undergraduate and graduate students at UF to learn about, and contribute to, research; pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as the University Scholar Program, the Preston-Haskell Scholarship and more; build professional and inter-personal skills; and ultimately boost careers after graduation. 

Our community: 

Serra Lab fosters a strong sense of community in which all students, undergraduate and graduate, achieve both professional and personal growth. Members commit to the ethic of work and mutual support by collaborating in joint research tasks and projects, practicing peer mentorship, reviewing each other’s work, and sharing opportunities. We adhere to rigorous academic and ethical standards as established by the University of Florida.  

If you are interested in learning more about our Lab, please contact Dr Serra at rserra@ufl.edu or Innocent Eluagu (CAS Graduate Assistant) at i.eluagu@ufl.edu.