Meet the Faculty: Serena Kim

Dr. Serena Kim is an assistant professor of research methods in the School of Public and International Affairs. Her research lies at the intersection of data science, public policy and collective action problems, with a primary focus on the energy transition. Her research has been featured in the New York Times, Washington Post, and other media outlets. Previously, she was a research associate in the College of Engineering, Design, and Computing at the University of Colorado Denver.

Which courses are you teaching?

This semester I will teach PA 515: Research Methods and Analysis and PA 765: Quantitative Research in Public Administration.

Please tell us about one of your current research projects.

My research predominantly centers around the electric grid. One of my current projects, funded by the National Science Foundation, is dedicated to exploring innovative strategies for harnessing electric vehicles to shape a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable energy landscape. Imagine a fleet of electric trucks and school buses, equipped with large batteries. When a blackout hits your town, these vehicles can connect to vital locations like community centers and schools, sharing some of their extra electricity. This ensures that these places remain well-lit and cooled, even amidst a widespread power outage. These electric vehicles can still be useful even when electricity is flowing smoothly. Instead of everyone simultaneously drawing heavy power from the grid, the vehicles can distribute their excess electricity to buildings when demand is highest—like on scorching summer days when everyone’s cranking up their air conditioners. This approach not only trims down electricity costs for buildings but also guarantees a steady and dependable power supply for everyone. Our team is delving into the technical and regulatory intricacies needed to make such a system a reality.

Why does the study of public administration matter?

It matters because every part of our daily lives is influenced by public policy decisions and the administration of those policies. 

What led you to a career as a professor of public administration? 

I’ve been passionate about fostering data literacy and providing accessible, robust computing education for all. I believe that equipping students with a solid grasp of scientific inquiry and an awareness of the ethical considerations in artificial intelligence can empower them to address critical societal challenges and advance fairness and inclusivity in their educational experiences. My journey began during my time in the College of Engineering, where I established a strong foundation for understanding the technologies that can influence human decision-making and delved into their ethical dimensions. My enduring interest lies in exploring the intricacies of data storage, management, and application in real-world scenarios. As a result, my passion for imparting this knowledge, combined with ethical frameworks for comprehending human-computer interactions, to students in social sciences and humanities, has grown stronger.

What is one thing your students would be surprised to know about you?

I can play any song by ear on the piano.

If you could time travel, what advice would you give to your college-age self?

To be kind to others and yourself. Don’t be too harsh on yourself. No one is perfect and anyone can make mistakes. 

What is the next thing you hope to accomplish on your wishlist?

I hope to publish my web-based mapping application that illustrates neighborhood-level grid resilience and vulnerabilities to power outages, achieved by aggregating over 50 layers of data. 

What are you looking forward to at NC State?

I am looking forward to collaborating with faculty, staff, and students at NC State, as well as engaging with the broader community in North Carolina. I’m also excited about the opportunity to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains.

What do you like to do when you’re not teaching? 

I enjoy hiking, dancing, and practicing yoga. I also like trying new recipes, reading books, watching movies, playing the piano, visiting zoos, watching football games, and attending performing arts shows and basketball games with my husband. 

Where did you move from prior to relocating to Raleigh and NC State?

University of Colorado Denver

Favorite caffeine fix?

Chocolate. Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is my favorite spot.