Mariah Caballero

I am an interdisciplinary social scientist trained in community-based research for equitable policy implementation. Using a combination of geospatial methods and energy justice theories, my research investigates U.S. climate and energy policies and their impact on the inequitable distribution of energy costs, infrastructure, and inefficiencies in rural and coastal communities. I aim to develop community-defined policy and engagement strategies for the clean energy transition that prioritize rural livelihoods and well-being. My previous peer-reviewed research can be found in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Energy Policy, and Frontiers in Environmental Science.

My teaching focuses on interdisciplinary, immersive learning experiences that provide undergraduates with opportunities for critical thinking and the development of applicable skills. I am currently teaching ES-202 (Environmental Justice: A Community-Centric Approach), which blends theoretical environmental justice concepts with community case studies and introductory data visualization skills.

Beyond the academy, I strive to produce meaningful research for non-profit organizations, such as co-authoring a report on rural and Tribal community-defined decarbonization in Washington State, creating and maintaining geospatial maps on the Northwest Clean Energy Atlas, and serving as an equity and environmental justice technical contributor for the Oregon State Energy Strategy. I believe academia is a privilege, and research should be actionable, policy-relevant, and a service to our communities.

I earned my PhD from Vanderbilt University in Community Research and Action (CRA), and my undergraduate degrees in Biology and Geography from Vassar College.

Education

• B.A., Vassar College
• M.S., Vanderbilt University
• Ph.D., Vanderbilt University