Gita Gopinath who studied at the Delhi School of Economics holds a Ph.D. in economics from Princeton University.

Gita Gopinath, professor at Harvard University, has been appointed chief economist of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The India-born economist will succeed Maurice Obstfeld, who announced his retirement in July. “Gita is one of the world’s outstanding economists, with impeccable academic credentials, a proven track record of intellectual leadership, and extensive international experience,” Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of IMF, said in the press statement. “All this makes her exceptionally well-placed to lead our Research Department at this important juncture. I am delighted to name such a talented figure as our Chief Economist.”

Ms. Gopinath who studied at the Delhi School of Economics holds a Ph.D. in economics from Princeton University. She was previously working as a co-director of the International Finance and Macroeconomics Program at the National Bureau of Economic Research. She was also the co-editor of The American Economic Review and the current Handbook of International Economics.

Ms. Gopinath is the John Zwaanstra Professor of International Studies and of Economics at Harvard University.