Dr. Zhan’s research centers on identifying social policies and other factors associated with the long-term economic well-being of low-income families with children. Specifically, her research examines the impact of educational approaches, specifically in the forms of postsecondary education and financial management training, on the long-term economic well-being of low-income families. She also examines the role of asset development, an approach that aims to develop human capital and to promote economic security for low-income families through facilitating their financial asset accumulation.

Dr. Zhan is currently working on or planning several projects, including:

evaluating the impact of education loans on college graduation and postgraduate financial well-being
investigate the influence of financial capacity on the well-being of young adults
examining financial assets, debt, and financial service utilization of low-income population