Dr. Marco Palma | Texas A&M University | United States
Marco A. Palma is a distinguished academic in the field of behavioral and experimental economics, with a specialized focus on food economics, neuroeconomics, and human decision-making. Over the years, he has held several key positions at Texas A&M University, demonstrating a progressive academic career and interdisciplinary influence. As Director of the Human Behavior Laboratory and a contributor to the Institute for Advancing Health through Agriculture, his work integrates economic analysis with behavioral science to address real-world issues related to health, food choices, and agricultural sustainability. His research bridges theory and application, shaping public understanding and influencing policy.
Profile
Early Academic Pursuits
Marco A. Palma’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in agricultural economics, which set the stage for his future as a scholar deeply invested in understanding human decision-making processes. His early interests quickly evolved into a desire to bridge economic theory with real-world behavioral outcomes, particularly in the context of food systems and consumer choices. This foundational curiosity in economics and behavior would later form the bedrock of his multidisciplinary research approach.
Professional Endeavors
At Texas A&M University, Marco Palma has developed a distinguished academic and professional career within the Department of Agricultural Economics. His progressive roles—from assistant professor to professor—reflect a trajectory of scholarly excellence and dedication to teaching, research, and public service. He has held several key academic appointments across the university, including joint roles in economics, public service, and behavioral science. His role as the Director of the Human Behavior Laboratory marks a significant milestone, highlighting his leadership in experimental and behavioral research at a university-wide level.
Contributions and Research Focus
Marco Palma’s research is at the forefront of behavioral and experimental economics, with a particular focus on food economics and neuroeconomics. His work investigates how people make decisions, especially under conditions involving food choices, nutrition, and health-related behaviors. By combining classical economic models with insights from psychology and neuroscience, he explores the neural and behavioral mechanisms that drive economic behavior. This interdisciplinary methodology allows for deeper, more nuanced understandings of consumer decision-making processes, particularly those affecting public health and sustainable agriculture.
Integration of Human Behavior and Agricultural Science
One of his major contributions lies in connecting agricultural economics with human behavior to promote responsive agriculture. Through his leadership roles within the Institute for Advancing Health through Agriculture, he has supported research that aligns agricultural practices with human health outcomes. His position as interim associate director in this institute underscores his commitment to advancing cross-sectoral strategies that respond to evolving food and health challenges.
Accolades and Recognition
Marco Palma’s reputation as a thought leader in behavioral economics is reinforced by his appointments across multiple colleges within Texas A&M University, including liberal arts and public service. These multidisciplinary affiliations are a testament to the wide-reaching impact of his scholarship and the high regard in which he is held by colleagues across academic domains. His leadership of the Human Behavior Laboratory has also garnered institutional recognition, positioning the lab as a central hub for innovation in experimental research methodologies.
Impact and Influence
Through his work, Marco Palma has influenced both academic and applied sectors, shaping how researchers and policymakers understand and address human behavior in relation to food systems, public health, and agricultural sustainability. His ability to translate complex behavioral data into practical strategies for healthier and more sustainable living has made his research relevant far beyond traditional academic circles. His mentorship and interdisciplinary collaborations have further extended his influence within the university and the broader research community.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Looking ahead, Marco Palma’s work promises to continue breaking new ground at the intersection of economics, neuroscience, and agriculture. His ongoing leadership in behavioral research and responsive agriculture positions him as a key figure in efforts to develop data-driven solutions for some of society’s most pressing challenges, including food insecurity, chronic disease, and climate-responsive agriculture. His legacy will be defined by his contributions to building a more holistic understanding of human behavior and his commitment to improving public well-being through informed policy and innovation.
Publication
Perceptions of antibiotic use in livestock farming in Germany, Italy and the United States
G. Busch, B. Kassas, M.A. Palma, A. Risius
2020
The effects of scarcity on cheating and in-group favoritism
B. Aksoy, M.A. Palma
2019
Evaluating the factors influencing the number of visits to farmers’ markets
F.J. Abelló, M.A. Palma, M.L. Waller, D.P. Anderson
2014
Economic analysis of food safety compliance costs and foodborne illness outbreaks in the United States
L.A. Ribera, M.A. Palma, M. Paggi, R. Knutson, J.G. Masabni, J. Anciso
2012
Fashionable food: a latent class analysis of social status in food purchases
M.A. Palma, M.L. Ness, D.P. Anderson
2017
Economic feasibility of a mobile fast pyrolysis system for sustainable bio-crude oil production
M.A. Palma, J. Richardson, B. Roberson, L. Ribera, J. Outlaw, C. Munster
2011
Economic contributions of the green industry in the United States in 2018
C.R. Hall, A.W. Hodges, H. Khachatryan, M.A. Palma
2020
Economic contributions of the green industry in the United States in 2013
A.W. Hodges, C.R. Hall, M.A. Palma, H. Khachatryan
2015
Purchasing shrimp for at-home consumption: The relative importance of credence versus physical product features
F.F. Wirth, L.A. Love, M.A. Palma
2007
Conclusion
Marco A. Palma’s career reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge at the intersection of human behavior, economics, and agriculture. His leadership in research and academic collaborations underscores his influence in shaping innovative, science-based approaches to improve health and sustainability outcomes. With continued dedication to interdisciplinary integration, his work will remain instrumental in guiding future advancements in behavioral economics and responsive agriculture.