Ariell's current research aims to understand the relationship between social systems, resource distribution and governance frameworks in regions undergoing economic transformation. Ariell's research focuses on contemporary pastoralist livelihoods and forms of work in Mongolia, with particular attention to understanding how pastoralists negotiate their rights to practise mobility and engage as political actors on multiple scales. Recently her work in Mongolia has become increasingly focused on herder-mine interactions, transformations in the rural economy (including land, livestock and infrastructure), and social aspirations related to education.