David Autor, a prominent labor economist and faculty member at MIT since 1999, has been named head of the Department of Economics.

David Autor, a distinguished faculty member of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) since 1999, has been named the new head of the Department of Economics, effective July 1, 2026. Autor succeeds Jon Gruber, who served as department head from July 2023.

Autor is recognized for his significant research in the fields of artificial intelligence and the future of work, particularly regarding the impacts of technological change and globalization on the labor market.

Agustín Rayo, Dean of the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, praised Autor’s expertise, stating, “David is a world-class labor economist and an individual of wisdom and insight.” Autor takes over the role from Jon Gruber, the Ford Professor of Economics, who headed the department since July 2023.

In his new role, Autor aims to maintain the high standards set by the department while also addressing the challenges posed by budget constraints and political changes. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating advancements in AI into both teaching and research strategies.

Autor’s credentials include serving as co-director of the National Bureau of Economic Research Labor Studies Program, and he holds a BA in psychology from Tufts University and a PhD in public policy from Harvard University. His work has earned him numerous accolades, such as the National Science Foundation CAREER Award and the Andrew Carnegie Fellowship.

With a profound commitment to addressing issues of job polarization and economic inequality, Autor expresses gratitude to MIT, stating, “Stepping into this role is a chance to contribute to a place that has shaped me at every stage.” His leadership is believed to foster a progressive academic environment that directly engages with pressing economic challenges.