Carl Marks Professor of International Studies at Cornell University, Professor Kaushik Basu is a distinguished economist renowned for his influential work in development economics, game theory, and welfare economics. Professor Basu’s research, which spans the theoretical foundations of economics as well as practical policy applications, has shaped global understanding of issues such as labour markets, industrial organization, and the economics of child labour. His innovative contributions include the formulation of the “Traveler’s Dilemma” and the development of new approaches to law and economics. Professor Basu’s research resonates strongly with Bath’s strategic research pillars of Sustainability and Health & Wellbeing, addressing critical global challenges such as economic development, poverty alleviation, and social welfare—areas that contribute to building sustainable societies and enhancing human wellbeing.
Alongside his academic achievements, Professor Basu is a prominent public intellectual and advocate for economic policy reform. He has served as Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2012-16), Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India (2009-12), as well as President of the International Economic Association (2017-21) where his expertise guided major policy decisions during pivotal periods. Professor Basu is also the founder of the Centre for Development Economics at the Delhi School of Economics and the cofounder of the Cornell Research Academy of Development, Law, and Economics (CRADLE). In recognition of his outstanding contributions to economics and public policy, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the University of Bath in 2016. His commitment to advancing the field has been further acknowledged through numerous international honours, including the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards, and the 2021 Humboldt Research Award for Economics.