The Ulster University community is deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Vani Kant Borooah, Emeritus Professor of Applied Economics, who died on 9 July 2026.
During a career spanning more than four decades, Professor Borooah became internationally recognised for his work in applied economics. At Ulster University, where he served as Professor of Applied Economics from 1987 until his retirement in 2013, he made an outstanding contribution to research, teaching and academic life.
Born in India, Professor Borooah completed his PhD at the University of Southampton in 1977 before joining the University of Cambridge, where he spent a decade as Senior Research Officer in the Department of Applied Economics and as a Fellow and College Lecturer in Economics at Queens' College.
In 1987 he came to Northern Ireland to take up the Chair in Applied Economics at Ulster University, a post he held with distinction for twenty-six years until his retirement in 2013, when the University appointed him Emeritus Professor.
Over the course of his career, Professor Borooah published more than 280 academic papers and numerous books. His research explored issues including poverty, inequality, unemployment, education, health and economic development, with a particular focus on improving understanding of the social and economic factors affecting people's lives. His work informed research and public policy both in Ireland and internationally.
His final book, The Political Economy of Terrorism: A Quantitative Analysis for India (Palgrave Macmillan, 2026), was typical of a mind that never stopped working.
His expertise earned widespread recognition across the academic community. He served as President of the European Public Choice Society and the Irish Economic Association and was elected a Member of the Royal Irish Academy in 2006, later serving as its Secretary. He also held honorary and visiting appointments at universities across Europe and Australia and advised governments, public bodies and international organisations on economic policy.
Alongside his internationally respected research, Professor Borooah was a dedicated teacher and mentor who inspired generations of students and supported colleagues throughout his career. His commitment to academic excellence, intellectual curiosity and generosity towards others made a lasting contribution to Ulster University and to the wider economics community.
Professor Colin Knox, Emeritus Professor of Comparative Public Policy at Ulster University, said:
"Professor Vani Kant Borooah was an exceptional scholar whose contribution to Ulster University extended far beyond his internationally recognised research. Through his teaching, mentorship and leadership, he inspired generations of students and colleagues, sharing his knowledge with generosity, kindness and quiet humility. Those who had the privilege of working alongside him will remember not only his remarkable intellect, but also his warmth, wit and unfailing courtesy, which enriched our University community.
"Our thoughts are with Professor Borooah's family, friends, former colleagues and students at this difficult time. He leaves an enduring legacy through his scholarship, his commitment to his students and the lasting impact he made on everyone who knew him."
Professor Borooah is survived by his wife, Vidya, his son Gautam, daughter-in-law Sigi and grandchildren Ozzie and Ivor.
