Paula Gobbi receives the 2026 EEA Role Models in Economics Award

ECARES is proud to announce that Professor Paula Gobbi, Director of ECARES and Professor at the Université libre de Bruxelles, has been awarded the 2026 EEA Role Models in Economics Award by the European Economic Association (EEA).

The award recognises economists aged 45 and under who combine outstanding academic achievements with exceptional contributions to the public good and to the economics profession.

In its official announcement, the EEA highlights Professor Gobbi’s pioneering research in demographic economics, economic history, development and economic growth, notably through her ERC-funded research programme on the interactions between inheritance systems, demographic change and long-term economic development.

The Association also recognises her remarkable service to the academic community. As Director of ECARES, following five years as its Financial Director, Paula Gobbi has played a central role in the Centre’s development while actively mentoring PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. Her commitment to organising international conferences, workshops and scientific networks has also contributed significantly to strengthening collaboration and interdisciplinary research in economics across Europe.

The 2026 award is jointly presented to Maria Bigoni (University of Bologna) and Paula Gobbi (Université libre de Bruxelles).

We warmly congratulate Paula on this well-deserved recognition, which reflects both her outstanding scientific contributions and her dedication to the economics profession.

Read the official announcement from the European Economic Association:
https://mailchi.mp/eeassoc.org/role-models-in-economics-award-2026-announced?e=42e4ff2f6e