As a multidisciplinary scholar, with degrees in engineering and social science, Associate Professor Reames' research agenda seeks to connect the areas of technological advancement, the policy process, and social equity. His research extends the environmental justice scholarship to focus on energy justice. He is currently exploring disparities in residential energy generation, consumption, and affordability—focusing on the production and persistence of inequality by race, class, and place.

Dr. Reames will be taking a leave of absence from his responsibilities at SEAS to serve as Deputy Director for Energy Justice at the U.S. Department of Energy. He leads the Office of Energy Justice Policy and Analysis in the Office of Economic Impact and Diversity. In this role, he will be responsible for energy justice policy and analysis to ensure energy investments and benefits reach frontline communities and Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color. This is an incredible opportunity for Dr. Reames to have a big impact on a national scale. As the Biden Administration prioritizes environmental justice and clean energy, now is THE time for change. This is a pivotal moment for energy justice, and the Biden Administration is lucky to have Dr. Reames’ expertise, experience, and commitment to creating a more just world.