Harvard Economists Elhanan Helpman and John Y. Campbell Elected to National Academy of Sciences

Two distinguished members of the Harvard Economics community—Elhanan Helpman and John Y. Campbell—have been elected to the National Academy of Sciences, one of the highest honors accorded to scientists and scholars in the United States.

The 2026 election recognizes individuals for their distinguished and continuing achievements in original research, placing Helpman and Campbell among an exceptional group of leaders across the sciences.

Elhanan Helpman

Elhanan Helpman, the Galen L. Stone Professor of International Trade at Harvard University, is one of the world’s leading scholars in international economics. His work has fundamentally shaped modern trade theory, particularly through models of trade under imperfect competition, economic growth, and the role of institutions in development.

Helpman’s scholarship bridges theory and policy, offering deep insights into globalization, innovation, and inequality. He has also made lasting contributions as a teacher and mentor, helping train generations of economists in international trade and macroeconomic theory. His influential books—including Globalization and Inequality and Trade and Growth (with Gene Grossman)—have helped define key debates in the field.

John Y. Campbell

John Y. Campbell, the Morton L. and Carole S. Olshan Professor of Economics at Harvard University, is a pioneering figure in financial economics. His research has reshaped the study of asset pricing, long-term investing, and the behavior of financial markets, with important implications for both academic research and real-world financial decision-making.

Campbell is also widely recognized for his commitment to teaching and his role in developing modern approaches to finance education. His co-authored book The Econometrics of Financial Markets remains a foundational text, while his more recent work, including Financial Decisions and Markets: A Course in Asset Pricing, continues to influence students and practitioners alike.

Advancing Knowledge Across Fields

Election to the National Academy of Sciences reflects the profound and lasting impact of Helpman’s and Campbell’s scholarship. Their work has expanded the frontiers of knowledge in international trade and financial economics, shaping how economists—and policymakers—understand global markets.

Their election is a proud milestone for Harvard Economics and a testament to the department’s enduring commitment to research, teaching, and intellectual leadership at the highest level.