We are delighted that the Department of Economics has been able to attract two of the world's most influential economists, Nobel laureates Esther Duflo and Abhijit Banerjee. The two will join UZH in July 2026, where they will establish the Lemann Center for Development, Education and Public Policy.

At the UBS Center, we are especially proud to call them familiar faces: both have long-standing ties to Zurich as members of the UBS Center Advisory Board and as repeat guests at the University of Zurich. Most recently, in June 2022, they delivered a public lecture on their book Good Economics for Hard Times, a memorable evening that drew a full audience and inspired reflection on how rigorous research can help address some of the world’s most pressing social and economic challenges.

Their arrival marks a milestone for Zurich’s position as a hub for excellence in economics. We look forward to welcoming Esther and Abhijit back to Zurich and to the momentum their presence will bring to Zurich’s standing as a leading center for research, innovation, and policy impact.