On July 1, 2025, Professor Junfu Zhang, Chair of the Department of Economics at Clark University (USA), was invited to deliver a keynote lecture at the “Nankai Institute of Economic and Social Development Academic Forum,” bringing an insightful academic presentation to faculty and students.

Professor Zhang is an internationally renowned scholar in the field of urban and regional economics. His lecture, titled “Model-Based Empirical Economic Research—A Review for Urban and Regional Economists,” offered an in-depth discussion on the methodology of economic research. The presentation covered key topics including the nature of economic science, empirical research, the role of models in empirical studies, the prevalence of model-based empirical analysis, the use of models in non-structural empirical research, and the relationship between models and structural empirical research.

Following the lecture, faculty and students engaged in a lively academic discussion with Professor Zhang on issues such as empirical research methods and model building. The forum atmosphere was intellectually stimulating and collegial.

As a key platform for academic exchange, the “Nankai Institute of Economic and Social Development Academic Forum” has, since its launch in 2021, continuously hosted distinguished scholars from both China and abroad to share cutting-edge research, fostering meaningful academic dialogue and collaboration.