David Lam

David Lam is a Professor of Economics and Research Professor at the Population Studies Center at the University of Michigan. He serves as Director of the Institute for Social Research and holds affiliations with the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies, African Studies Center, and LACS Emeriti. With a PhD from UC Berkeley (1983), his research bridges economics and demography in developing countries, focusing on population dynamics, education, labor markets, and income inequality in Brazil and South Africa. He leads the Cape Area Panel Study, a NIH-funded longitudinal survey in Cape Town. Lam has held leadership roles including President of the Population Association of America and membership in the U.S. National Academy of Sciences’ Committee on Population. His advisory work spans organizations like the World Bank and UN Population Division. Key honors include an Honorary Professorship at the University of Cape Town.

• Education: PhD, Economics, UC Berkeley, 1983
• Affiliations: Institute for Social Research, Population Studies Center, African Studies Center

Research emphasizes the interplay between economic systems and demographic trends, particularly in South Africa and Brazil. He explores fertility patterns, youth unemployment, and the role of education in reducing inequality. Recent work addresses global labor market challenges and sustainability amid population growth.

Grants and collaborations include NIH-supported studies and partnerships with South African institutions. His policy contributions inform international development strategies on education, health, and labor markets.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Cape Area Panel Study (CAPS) collaboration with University of Cape Town.