Alexander L.P. Willén

Alexander L.P. Willén serves as Professor in the Department of Economics at NHH Norwegian School of Economics and holds the prestigious title of Distinguished CESifo Affiliate. His research bridges Labor Economics and Economics of Education within the CESifo Research Network's dedicated Economics of Education area chaired by Eric Hanushek and Ludger Woessmann.

Professor Willén's research program examines fundamental labor market dynamics including worker agency, union effects, and educational outcomes. His work investigates how informal learning influences competition, how firms respond to unionization, and the long-term consequences of educational experiences. Using advanced empirical methods, he analyzes large-scale datasets to uncover causal relationships in areas spanning personnel economics, industrial organization, and health economics.

His recent publications (2021-2025) reveal a strong focus on labor market power dynamics, with recurring themes in union-employer relations, immigration effects, and life-cycle responses to economic shocks. The research demonstrates interdisciplinary reach, connecting education outcomes to health economics (doctor quality studies) and behavioral economics (gender competitiveness research).

Scientific recognition includes:

• Distinguished CESifo Affiliate status

Professor Willén maintains active supervision of graduate researchers through NHH, with his publication record indicating strong mentorship of junior colleagues. His CESifo affiliation provides access to international research networks, policy channels, and collaborative funding opportunities. While no formal lab structure is specified, his work operates within CESifo's Economics of Education research area, connecting with global experts in educational policy analysis.