Ulrich Zierahn-Weilage appointed as professor Applied Economic Data Research Methods

As of 1 March 2026, Ulrich Zierahn-Weilage is appointed as Professor of Applied Economic Data Research Methods at the Utrecht University School of Economics (U.S.E.). He wants to develop a research agenda that uses machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) to generate new data, connect previously separate data sources, and answer policy-relevant questions on digitalisation, globalisation, and labour market institutions.

Ulrich Theodor Zierahn-Weilage 

In his research, Ulrich Theodor Zierahn-Weilage focuses on the transformation of work through digitalisation, globalisation and labour market institutions, combining applied econometrics, statistical learning, and natural language processing with rich administrative and survey data. He has published in leading journals such as the Journal of Labor Economics, Journal of the European Economic Association, and Journal of Public Economics. His work on automation and the future of work has received widespread scientific and policy attention, with several thousand citations and numerous media appearances. 

Before joining Utrecht University in 2019, he was Senior Researcher at the ZEW – Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research in Mannheim, where he acquired substantial third-party funding. He currently leads work packages in two large EU-funded Horizon projects on inequality and skills in the green and digital transitions. 

Zierahn-Weilage obtained his PhD in economics from the University of Kassel with highest distinction and has received multiple awards for his research. He is a Research Associate at ZEW, a CESifo Network Affiliate, a GLO Fellow, and actively contributes to Utrecht University’s Institutions for Open Societies and Future of Work hub.

About the Chair in Applied Economic Data Research Methods

In the chair of Applied Economic Data Research Methods, I aim to strengthen U.S.E.’s profile in cutting-edge empirical work by systematically integrating statistical learning, natural language processing, and AI into both our research and teaching, says Ulrich Zierahn. Building on my experience with text as data, linked employer–employee data, novel survey data, and administrative records, I will further develop a research agenda that uses machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) to generate new data, connect previously separate data sources, and answer policy-relevant questions on digitalisation, globalisation, and labour market institutions. 

A concrete example is our ongoing work that applies NLP to vocational curricula and patents to study how new technologies shape skill demand and to link these curricula to online vacancies to analyse education–work mismatch. 

In teaching, I plan to contribute to our methods curriculum - ranging from econometrics to applied data science labs - so that bachelor, master, and PhD students acquire hands-on experience with modern causal inference, statistical learning, and AI tools in real-world projects. 

In doing so, I want the chair to function as a hub within U.S.E. and Utrecht University for multidisciplinary data collaborations, while fostering an inclusive academic environment and actively acquiring external funding to build and support a strong team of early- and mid-career researchers.

Responses to the Appointment

Head of Department Niels Bosma on the appointment of Ulrich Zierahn-Weilage: We are delighted to welcome Ulrich to this important position. His work is firmly rooted in scientifically rigorous, applied quantitative research, with a strong focus on generating real-world impact. He addresses timely and highly relevant themes such as the future of work, globalization, and regionalization, and is particularly skilled at translating complex data into insights that matter for society and policy.

In his teaching, Ulrich combines methodological depth with an inclusive and engaging style that strengthens students’ critical thinking and analytical skills. He consistently places societal relevance at the centre of his courses, while also encouraging students to reflect on systemic biases and the responsible use of data. We are proud that he will further strengthen our research and education in applied economic data research methods.

I am honoured and grateful to be appointed, says Zierahn-Weilage himself. U.S.E. provides a uniquely inspiring environment, where high-quality, data-driven economic research goes hand in hand with a strong Real World Perspective and close engagement with policymakers and societal stakeholders, and I am excited to contribute to this mission in my new role. I look forward to working with colleagues within our faculty and across Utrecht University, and together with our national and international partners, to develop innovative data infrastructures and methods that improve our understanding of the future of work and broader socio-economic challenges. Above all, I am excited to continue teaching and supervising students and PhD candidates, and to support a collaborative, inclusive, and open academic community at Utrecht University.