Institute Fellows are nationally recognized thought leaders and prominent scholars, experienced in matters of importance to TIAA and those we serve. These experts extend our knowledge, skills and reach, and advance our thought leadership. Fellows have conducted more than 100 Institute-sponsored research studies.
Academic Researchers
Conducting and sponsoring rigorous academic research since 1998
With a team of economists and program staff, Fellows and strategic partners, the Institute conducts research and organizes convenings on critical issues related to financial security, higher education and endowments and foundations.
Academic Researchers
Initiatives to advance the academic community
The Institute provides an environment in which academic researchers can exchange ideas and expand their reach to affect public policy. Leaders use the knowledge provided by the Institute to make better-informed decisions.
The TIAA Institute supports original research and thought leadership through its grants program. Leading scholars are encouraged to submit innovative research ideas on financial security, higher education and endowments and foundations. The TIAA Institute, with the Pension Research Council at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, funds high-quality, cutting-edge research on retirement policy and practice.
The Institute’s signature award programs are designed to advance knowledge and recognize leadership excellence. The TIAA Paul A. Samuelson Award For Outstanding Scholarly Writing On Lifelong Financial Security recognizes an outstanding research publication that helps advance Americans’ lifelong financial well-being. The TIAA Institute Theodore M. Hesburgh Award for Leadership Excellence in Higher Education recognizes a current higher education leader for commitment to higher education, leadership and contributions to the greater good.
Events
2016 Fellows Symposium – Achieving Better Retirement Outcomes: Solutions for a Modern Workplace
On October 21, 2016, the TIAA Institute and the Wharton School’s Pension Research Council co-hosted a Fellows Symposium focused on retirement security.
Trending Topics
In addition to our focus areas here are some of our latest research topics.
Latest Research Reports
January 2021
How will COVID-19 affect retirement patterns among senior faculty and how can institutions respond?
October 2020
Many healthcare sector employees have made changes to their retirement saving and investments since the onset of COVID-19. Nonetheless, confidence in the amount they are saving and in the investment of their savings has been shaken.
October 2020
Looking beyond the pandemic, higher education institutions are evaluating what may need to change in their operating models.
September 2020
The complexity of health and retirement benefit plan offerings can make it difficult for employees to make optimal decisions.
August 2020
As the U.S. moves through and past the Covid-19 pandemic, individuals will strive to rebuild their financial resilience. Many will turn to their employers for help.
June 2020
Poor financial capability can contribute to a host of problems, particularly for people close to retirement.