It is with profound sadness that the Department of Economics mourns the passing of Damba Lkhagvasuren, professor of Economics and distinguished scholar in macroeconomics, labor economics, and quantitative methods. Damba tragically passed away on June 16, 2025, in his home country of Mongolia, leaving behind a legacy of intellectual curiosity and excellence. He left an indelible mark on the academic community through his rigorous research, dedicated mentorship, and unwavering commitment to advancing economic theory and policy.
Damba pursued his academic journey with remarkable determination. He earned his PhD in Economics from the University of Rochester in 2007 under the supervision of Mark Bils. Before joining Concordia University that same year, he worked as a Senior Research Associate at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Earlier in his career, he held positions at ENSAI-CREST, the National University of Mongolia, and served as an economic advisor to the Speaker of the Parliament in Mongolia.
At Concordia University, Damba established himself as a leading voice in macroeconomics, focusing on multi-sector economies, labor market dynamics, and business cycles. His research explored critical issues such as unemployment insurance take-up rates, sectoral mobility, and more recently, homelessness. His work, characterized by innovative quantitative methods, was published in prestigious journals, including the European Economic Review, the Journal of Monetary Economics, and the Journal of Labor Research.
Damba’s contributions extended well beyond research. In the classroom, he was known for his intensity and passion, challenging students to engage deeply with economic theory. Many students appreciated his accessibility and genuine care for their intellectual growth. His courses left a lasting impact, fostering a deeper understanding of macroeconomics and labor economics. He also supervised several PhD and MA theses, mentoring students through rigorous and relevant research. In addition, he contributed to the department’s academic and operational strength by playing an active role in key administrative positions.
The academic community mourns the loss of a brilliant scholar whose curiosity and dedication inspired colleagues and students alike. Foremost, we lost a friend with a great sense of humor, passion for life, and an inspiring presence in the department. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those touched by his remarkable life.