The CEPR has appointed Kenza Benhima as its next Visiting Chair, continuing its initiative within the French economic research community. Benhima will hold the position for a three-month term, operating from Sciences Po and mentoring PhD students.

The appointment of Benhima is part of the ongoing efforts to bolster collaboration within the French and international economics research communities, with the support of the French government and various sponsors.

The initiative aligns with the “Choose France for Science” programme launched by President Emmanuel Macron on May 5, 2025. It aims to enhance France’s scientific attractiveness, expand policy impact, and foster essential partnerships with both public and private decision-makers in France.

Professor Benhima, a renowned faculty member in Macroeconomics at the University of Lausanne and a CEPR Research Fellow in the International Macroeconomics and Finance programme, will serve in the role for three months starting on May 1, 2026. During her residency, she is expected to significantly contribute to initiatives aimed at strengthening scientific cooperation across the French economic research and policy landscape.

In addition to her research, she will deliver a masterclass and provide mentorship to a select group of PhD students from various French academic institutions. Benhima’s research specialization encompasses financial macroeconomics, international finance, and monetary economics.

This appointment follows the earlier selection of Vicente Cuñat as CEPR’s first Visiting Chair of 2026.