Heckman Institute for Human Capabilities at Jinan University is a premier interdisciplinary research center established under the direct guidance of Professor James J. Heckman, Nobel Laureate in Economics. The institute brings together leading scholars from diverse fields such as economics, education, psychology, public health, and sociology to address complex social issues affecting human development. Through collaborative research and policy engagement, the Heckman Institute aims to become a global leader in advancing the understanding of human capabilities and promoting evidence-based solutions for societal challenges.

Building on a decade of deep collaboration (2016–2026) between the Institute for Economic and Social Research and Professor James J. Heckman, the institute aligns its research agenda with China's national strategy for high-quality population development. The Heckman Institute’s research encompasses a wide range of topics, including early childhood development, education policy, health disparities, labor market outcomes, and the economic returns to human capital investment. The institute also serves as a platform for international academic exchange, fostering partnerships with renowned institutions and policymakers worldwide.

Our mission is to produce rigorous empirical evidence to inform policies on early childhood intervention, skill measurement, and social mobility, thereby contributing to the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation by enhancing human capital.