Tomasz Michalski joined HEC's Economics department as Assistant Professor of Finance and Economics in September 2006. Originally from Poland, he moved to Paris from New York after completing his PhD in Economics at Columbia University.

Can you tell us about the course you are teaching?
I am teaching an introductory course in microeconomics, the aim of which is to present fundamental microeconomic strategies that students will be able to apply in their future professional lives. The course focuses on theoretical concepts of economic decision-making as well as game theory and case studies which illustrate how these concepts have been applied in real life. This interaction between theory and practice is particularly valuable.

Which research projects are you working on?
Professor Ai-Ting Goh and I are working on an international trade theory established in the 1980s. The theory explains trade between industrialized countries as a function of increasing returns to scale in production and has a number of policy implications that differ from classical trade theory. By looking critically at this model, we have shown that some basic assumptions are not necessary. We hope that our research will introduce a new angle to the debate on international trade.

What attracted you to HEC?
HEC is internationally renowned as a top research facility. My research agenda complements the research projects already underway in the Economics department and HEC also has a strong Finance department, which affords me opportunities to conduct transversal research in intermediation. I am very much looking forward to collaborating with them.

What are your first impressions of HEC and of Paris?
I have received a really warm welcome – everyone has been very friendly. It is a great environment in which to conduct research as people are open to new ideas and are constantly striving to find better solutions. Standards are very high and the opportunity to interact with academics from diverse backgrounds is bringing a new depth to my research.

It is also wonderful to be back in Europe. My family and I are delighted that the campus has a tranquil location just a few miles from the bustle of the city, especially since we come from the suburbs in Warsaw. Last but not least, we are big fans of French cuisine!