Joachim Ragnitz

Prof. Dr. Joachim Ragnitz is Managing Director of ifo Dresden (since 2007) and an Honorary Professor at Technische Universität Dresden (since 2011). His work focuses on regional economic development in East Germany, structural change, public policy, labor markets, and demographic economics.

• PhD in Economics, University of Cologne (1989)
• Studies in Economics, University of Cologne (1981–1986)
• Previously: Head of Department at Halle Institute for Economic Research (1994–2007)

Research interests span regional disparities in East-West Germany, pension policy, fiscal sustainability, labor market dynamics, and demographic shifts. Recent projects include analyzing the impact of high-speed rail infrastructure at Munich Airport, climate protection risks for industrial regions, and demographic-driven birth rate declines.

His 2025 publications address intergenerational pension burdens, fiscal policy effects in Eastern Germany, and structural challenges in public sector staffing. Key scientific awards include prizes for contract study management (2018, 2016) and advisory roles in German state commissions.

Teaching assignments at Technische Universität Dresden and University of Leipzig cover topics like "Einführung in die Wirtschaftspolitik" and "Ökonomische Implikationen des Demographischen Wandels". He serves on advisory boards for climate policy, social innovation, and EU structural funds.