Dr. James Heckman

Biography

James J. Heckman is the Henry Schultz Distinguished Service Professor of Economics and Public Policy at the University of Chicago. He serves as the Director of the Center for Economics and Human Development (CEHD). His research focuses on understanding the origins of major social and economic questions related to inequality, social mobility, discrimination, skill formation, and labor market regulation. Heckman's work spans different contexts and cultures, currently including analysis of the impact of early childhood programs worldwide. He studies the immediate and long-term impacts of these interventions, specifically in the United States and China. In collaboration with researchers from the U.S., China, and Germany, he works on measuring preferences and traits, showcasing the importance of noncognitive skills in economic outcomes. He has initiated studies on family dynamics, such as fertility and cooperation, and has conducted comparative studies on social mobility between Denmark and the U.S., indicating similar patterns that challenge the notion of 'Zip Code Destiny'. Heckman was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 2000 for his contributions to microeconometrics and public policy evaluation. He has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the John Bates Clark Medal and the Gold Medal from the President of the Italian Republic.

Research Interests

Experience

Awards