Phil Gigliotti, PhD '23

Name: Phil Gigliotti 
Hometown: Rochester, NY 
Program: Public Administration and Policy PhD

Tell us about your research interests/dissertation and why you are passionate about this topic? 

My dissertation used quantitative methods to evaluate the ability of performance management reforms to improve population health outcomes in the context of local health departments. I am passionate about quantitative methods due the importance of data and statistics in business and public policy today, especially in the healthcare sector. I am passionate about performance management because it is a method of using data to improve decision-making and drive better outcomes in organizations of all kinds. 

What do you want the public to know about your research? Why is your topic important? 

The quantity and quality of data is growing every year, and it is important for students and professionals to learn the quantitative methods that are used to turn data into evidence to support decision-making and improve outcomes. Performance management offers a framework for using data to produce evidence and improve decision-making. Quantitative minded professionals who understand performance management principles have the potential to improve business and policy processes and create a better future. 

What was one of the most meaningful experiences you had during your time in the PhD program?  

For two years in the middle of my program, I served as a research assistant on an evaluation of a multi-billion dollar reform of New York State's Medicaid program, which provides healthcare to low-income New Yorkers. This project provided my first exposure to healthcare data analytics. I gained experience using large healthcare data sets, including the specialized methodologies that are used to handle large quantities of highly sensitive personal data. This experience led me to find permanent employment in the healthcare data analytics field. 

What kind of opportunities are you considering for post-graduate employment?  

I am a researcher at a company called Mathematica, which develops evidence to improve decision-making in government and public policy organizations, with the goal of improving social well-being. I serve on projects that provide data analytic support to the federal government to facilitate implementation of the Medicare program, which provides healthcare to U.S. senior citizens. 

What advice do you have for students who are considering or pursuing a PhD at Rockefeller?  

I advise students to develop mastery of data and statistics through coursework and applied research projects, and to seek real world work experiences that can provide a pathway to future employment.