As a resource economist, Dr. Hansen specializes in applying economic theory, using modeling and simulation in a systems analysis framework, to evaluate the future consequences of decision-making in energy, water, and land management. His current research interests involve the economics of energy transitions, incorporating decision making under uncertainty, systems analysis and engineering economics. He applies these themes in his ongoing projects where he conducts analyses of costs and prices, models uncertainty, and measures financial risks in the areas of the nuclear fuel cycle, in supply chains for bioenergy, and in renewable energy from agriculture. Before joining INL Hansen focused on water scarcity, where he conducted cost-benefit analysis, optimization studies, and price analysis, and on land management where he analyzed social and coordinated behavior in the treatment of invasive species. He also published in public economics where he has developed a method for better ways to account for risk in cost-benefit studies, and analyzed best practices for mitigating corruption in public organizations. While employed at the Naval Postgraduate School, Hansen taught graduate level courses for several years where he instructed military officers and Department of Defense civilians on methodologies for efficient and effective resource management in public organizations. Further, Hansen led teaching teams to Central America where his team delivered courses in resources management. Today he serves as an adjunct faculty member at Idaho State University, teaching night classes on principles of economics.

​Natural Resource Economics emphasis on energy and water