Sherif Haikal is a research associate at Beacon Economics. Prior to joining Beacon, Mr. Haikal was a research analyst at the Asia Economic Institute in Los Angeles where he conducted empirical macro-economic research and worked with statistical, analytical, and financial data. He previously held a position as an economic research analyst at the Department for Economic Cooperation with the United States in the Ministry of International Cooperation in Cairo, Egypt where he administered several USAID economic assistance programs through financial tracking, budget reporting, and cost benefit analysis. In addition, he served as the Ministry's representative to the United Nation's micro-credit and short-term loans development initiative. Mr. Haikal has bolstered his professional experience through key training positions at Pacific Investment Management Company (PIMCO) and TNS Global. His academic background includes an emphasis in econometrics and economic development. As part of his Master's program he conducted empirical research on foreign aid effectiveness in promoting economic growth. He is fluent in Arabic and has a working knowledge of both French and Turkish. He holds an M.A. in applied economics from Eastern Michigan University and a B.A. in economics from the University of Connecticut.