Asad Islam

I am a Development Economist and Professor at Monash University with over two decades of experience in policy-engaged research and academic leadership focused on inclusive and sustainable development.

My research examines how education, health, financial inclusion, labour markets, social protection, and institutional design shape human wellbeing and leadership outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. A central theme of my work is understanding how policies and institutions can expand participation, resilience, and opportunity across households, workplaces, and public systems.

I have provided strategic leadership to large, interdisciplinary research programs and partnerships involving governments, multilateral development banks, and international foundations. This has included responsibility for research agenda setting, mentoring and supervision, budget oversight, and sustained engagement with policymakers and implementing partners.

My approach combines rigorous empirical methods with close attention to policy design, implementation, and institutional learning. I have collaborated extensively with governments, NGOs, and international organisations across South and Southeast Asia, the Pacific, and fragile settings, and remain committed to research that informs real-world decision making and supports effective institutional reform.