Dave Donaldson

Dave Donaldson has made path-breaking empirical contributions to fundamental questions in international trade and geographical economics, including the impact of transportation infrastructure on trade costs and economic activity and the role of comparative advantage in determining trade flows and rising incomes. His research blends economic theory with sophisticated empirical modeling and innovative new data sets drawn from both historical and contemporary settings to illuminate answers to core questions in international trade.  His work also makes important contributions to economic history, development, and climate change.  Donaldson was awarded the American Economic Association’s 2017 John Bates Clark Medal as the best US-based economist under 40.