Jesse Lastunen is a Research Associate at UNU-WIDER, where his work focuses on tax-benefit microsimulation modelling. His recent work includes the development of a new microsimulation model for Rwanda, an assessment of the presumptive tax regime in Uganda, and comparative research on the effectiveness of African tax-benefit systems during the pandemic. Dr. Lastunen has previously worked for organizations such as OECD, RAND Corporation, Internet Association, and the Technopolis Group, conducting policy-oriented research on labour markets and emerging technologies. He received his PhD in Policy Analysis from the Pardee RAND Graduate School, with analytical concentrations in economics and quantitative methods. He has Master’s degrees in International Economics and Technology Policy.