About Me

 ​I am a doctoral candidate in the Political Science Department at the University of Pennsylvania. My dissertation explains how states design their military, focusing particularly on the choice to use conscription. I am interested in both international relations and comparative politics, but the underlying theme of my research agenda is the question “how do different military policies affect states and the people who live in them?” My additional academic interests include military strategy and conflict, civil wars, civil-military relations, and state formation.

​Originally from Connecticut, I went to McGill University in Montréal to receive my BA (in Political Science). I now live in Philadelphia as I complete my dissertation. When not doing research or teaching, I enjoy playing tennis, keeping my cat away from my food, and reading. You can reach me at margm@sas.upenn.edu.