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Serra Kirsch

Research Analyst

For media inquiries, please contact cinamon@csinstituteus.org

Serra recently earned a Master of Science in Economics from Portland State University, where she specialized in empirical macroeconomics and international finance. Before that, she spent two years conducting research in health economics, focusing on the impact of tobacco control policies. She completed her undergraduate education in Industrial Engineering and Economics in Istanbul, Turkey. 

Growing up in Istanbul, she developed a strong interest in working on emerging market economies. In her free time, she enjoys rock climbing and scuba diving. 

Expert's Work
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Workforce
Childcare in Oregon: An Economic Opportunity with Wide Implications

Oregon families face some of the highest child care costs in the nation, with infant care averaging over $14,000 a year and consuming up to 23% of household income in some counties. At the same time, limite

Jobs & Our Economy
Inflation in the Pacific Region - September 2025

Inflation in the Pacific region rose 3.5% year-over-year in September 2025, outpacing the national average of 3%, driven by higher prices in medical care, energy, transportation, and services. The Federal R

October 24, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen
Healthcare
Oregon’s Mental Health Crisis: Access, Outcomes, and the Cost of Inaction

Oregon faces some of the worst mental-health outcomes in the U.S., with high rates of illness, suicide, and overdose—and major downstream impacts on homelessness, incarceration, and productivity. Despite un

October 23, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen
Jobs & Our Economy
Oregon Jobs and Labor Force – August 2025 Update

Oregon’s labor market gained 7,000 jobs in August, led by Education and Health Services, Leisure and Hospitality, and Government, while Manufacturing added 900 jobs after three months of losses. Despite the

September 17, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen