Janet Hunter

Janet Hunter is the Saji Professor of Economic History at the London School of Economics (LSE), specializing in the economic history of modern Japan with a focus on comparative contexts. Her work examines female labor market development, Japan-Britain economic relations, and communications infrastructure. She currently researches the economic impact of the 1923 Great Kantō Earthquake and collaborates internationally on business ethics in historical and contemporary Japanese contexts.

Education:

• D.Phil. in Economic History (1976), University of Oxford
• B.A. Dual Honours (First Class) in Japanese/Economic and Social History (1971-1971), University of Sheffield

Research Interests: Dr. Hunter’s research bridges economic history and gender studies, analyzing Japan’s industrialization, labor markets, and global economic relationships. She explores themes like disaster economics, business ethics, and the role of communications in socio-economic development.

Key Contributions:

• Co-editor of the Journal of Japanese Studies
• Member of the Association for Asian Studies project on 'New Frontiers in Asian Economic History'
• Recipient of the Order of the Rising Sun (2014) and ISS-OUP Prize (2011)

Teaching & Service: She teaches courses on Japanese economic development, global history, and gender studies at LSE. She has held leadership roles including Head of the Department of Economic History and Deputy Director of STICERD. Her service extends to international advisory boards and academic committees across Japan and Europe.