Y. Allen Chen, Ph.D.
Economist
Fishery Resource Analysis and Monitoring Division
Economic and Social Science Research Program
Office: (206) 302-1762
Email: allen.chen@noaa.gov
Y. Allen Chen, Ph.D.
Economist
Background
Allen Chen joined the Northwest Fisheries Science Center in 2019. Previously, Allen worked for the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center. He received his Ph.D. in economics from the University of Washington.
Current Research
Allen’s research focuses on integrating models of fisher behavior into our understanding of biological systems. This has included improving how we use fishery-dependent data, and how observed effort and catches are influenced by fisher incentives and selection. These efforts support stock assessments and fishery management plans, particularly in data-limited scenarios, to ensure fisheries reach optimal yield. In addition, Allen has worked on understanding drivers of fishery selectivity, how different fishers may target different fish sizes, and how this can affect the age structure of a fishery over time. Efficient targeting maximizes the long-term economic benefits of U.S. fisheries.
Allen also maintains the Input-Output model for Pacific Coast Fisheries (IOPAC), which estimates the economic contributions of fisheries to the United States West Coast. He directs the Northwest voluntary cost earnings data collections, which measure the profitability of fishing fleets, to ensure the long-term economic sustainability of U.S. fisheries. His ongoing work includes research aimed at improving our understanding of seafood supply chains.