Ethiopian Review

Rutgers Professor Tomas Sjöström (Pronounced: Shur-strum) was named the first holder of the James Cullen Chair in Economics at today’s meeting of the Rutgers Board of Governors. Sjöström, chair of the Department of Economics, is best known for his expertise in using mathematical analyses to understand human behavior.

“The combination of Professor Sjöström’s accomplishments in game theory, international relations and neuroeconomics make him an ideal choice to be the first recipient of the James Cullen Chair in Economics,” said Rutgers President Richard L. McCormick.

Sjöström has applied his theoretical work to address issues in the economy and public policy. He is attempting to mathematically answer the questions: “Why is there war rather than peace?” and “How does the brain work?”

“I am honored to be the first recipient of the James Cullen Chair in Economics,” said Sjöström. “With this position I hope to further develop my research interests in neuroeconomics, behavioral economics, and mechanisms for conflict resolution.”

Sjöström serves as an adjunct member of the selection committee for the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Science. Also, Sjöström has written for several journals of renowned organizations including Science, published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Sjöström completed his undergraduate studies in Stockholm and received a doctorate from the University of Rochester in 1991. He taught at Harvard University and Pennsylvania State University before beginning his work at Rutgers in 2004.

The James Cullen Chair award is named after a 1964 alumnus who established a $500,000 endowment to provide Rutgers scholarships to Piscataway High School graduates. Cullen was inducted into the Rutgers Hall of Distinguished Alumni in 2002.