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Professor Michael Naef

This week, Professor Michael Naef has taken up his appointment as the School’s new Head of the Economics and Finance Department, joining from Royal Holloway’s Department of Economics, where he was Head of Department.

About Professor Naef

Professor Naef’s research expertise lies in the field of experimental economics, in which he has published leading and influential papers focused on the impact of hormones and other drivers in human decision making. 

His academic career spans over 18 years, beginning as a PhD student at the University of Zurich in 2003. Professor Naef joined Royal Holloway in 2007, where he worked as a Lecturer, Reader and then Head of Department.

Welcome to the School

In taking on his new role, Professor Naef believes that Durham University Business School has the potential to become an even more influential locus of research and education in economics and finance, with impact across the region as well as nationally and internationally.

“With its unique history, diverse staff members, the ability to recruit ambitious students and, not the least, its beautiful campus, the department is in a great position to further develop its reputation as an internationally competitive teaching and research department.” Professor Naef.

Executive Dean, Professor Susan Hart, commented: “After a very competitive and comprehensive international recruitment process, I am delighted to welcome Professor Naef to the School. He joins us at an exciting time as we look to drive the School forward post-pandemic on its continuing journey to being a top global business school. I look forward to working with him in implementing his ideas for the Department that will enhance its reputation further and support our vision.”

The Department of Economics and Finance

The School’s Department of Economics and Finance has a long history of internationally recognised economics and finance research and supports some of the UK’s major businesses and institutions. It has a strong culture of research collaboration working with other University departments and external organisations such as businesses and government institutions including the Bank of England, Federal Reserve Bank, UK Trade & Investment, BIS and the UK parliament.

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