Lance Lochner



Canada Research Chair in Human Capital and Inequality

Tier 1 - 2017-11-01
Renewed: 2011-10-01, 2024-07-01
Western University
Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council

519-661-2111 ext./poste 85281
llochner@uwo.ca

Research involves


Analyzing how people acquire skills over their lifetimes and the effects of government policies on education and the labour market.

Research relevance


This research will improve understanding of skill formation, income inequality and intergenerational mobility, and help guide education and labour market policies.

Research summary


The dramatic growth in income inequality over the past few decades has given rise to a long list of concerns, including the structure of our education and labour markets, the nature of technological change, and the ability of families to “insure” themselves against adverse economic circumstances. Motivated by these concerns, Dr. Lance Lochner is studying three important aspects of our changing economy.

As Canada Research Chair in Human Capital and Inequality, Lochner is examining the extent to which inequality is driven by changes in the distribution of skills across the labour market. He and his research team are also studying how family investment affects the early development of these skills. Lastly, they are analyzing the financing of post-secondary schooling through student loans, focusing on the structure of loans and their repayment. Ultimately, Lochner’s research will contribute to policies to reduce economic inequalities and support skills development.