Paul J. Gertler

Paul J. Gertler is the Li Ka Shing Professor of Economics at the University of California, Berkeley, holding dual appointments at the Haas School of Business and the School of Public Health. He serves as Faculty Director of the Institute for Business & Social Impact and Scientific Director of the Center for Effective Global Action. With over three decades of academic experience, Gertler has established himself as a leading expert in impact evaluation methodology and its application across multiple development sectors.

Dr. Gertler received his PhD in Economics from the University of Wisconsin in 1985 following completion of his BA at the same institution. Prior to joining UC Berkeley, he held academic positions at Harvard University, RAND Corporation, and SUNY Stony Brook, building a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied economics.

Gertler's research interests span multiple domains of development economics with particular emphasis on impact evaluation methods. His work systematically examines how interventions affect outcomes in health, education, poverty alleviation, and economic development. He has pioneered methodologies for evaluating large-scale programs including conditional cash transfers, health interventions, and educational reforms across numerous countries. His research consistently bridges academic rigor with practical policy relevance, making significant contributions to evidence-based policymaking worldwide.

Analysis of Gertler's recent publications reveals a continued focus on innovative evaluation methods applied to pressing development challenges. His work spans health economics (malaria treatment, chronic disease management), financial inclusion (digital collateral, fintech), infrastructure development (road maintenance, water and sanitation), and human capital formation (early childhood development, business skills training). A distinctive feature of his research is the use of rigorous experimental and quasi-experimental methods to establish causal relationships while maintaining policy relevance.

• Kenneth Arrow Award for best paper in health economics (1996)

Gertler has led numerous large-scale impact evaluations including Mexico's Progresa/Oportunidades program and Rwanda's Health Care Pay-for-Performance scheme. His work has informed major policy decisions at the World Bank and other international institutions. As Chief Economist of the World Bank's Human Development Network (2004-2007) and Founding Chair of 3ie (2009-2012), he played a pivotal role in institutionalizing impact evaluation as a standard practice in development work. His textbook 'Impact Evaluation in Practice' has become the standard reference in the field.

Through the Center for Effective Global Action, Gertler leads a team of researchers conducting field experiments across multiple continents. The center focuses on identifying effective interventions in global development through rigorous evaluation. His current projects examine innovative approaches to improving healthcare delivery, financial inclusion, and economic opportunities in low- and middle-income countries.