1. What inspired you to pursue research in your field and how has it evolved over time?

I am an economist, and my research interests have evolved in response to some of the most important social and economic challenges facing society today. My current work covers labour-market issues, including the well-being of older adults and the impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce, as well as developments in environmental and energy economics.

Although these topics may appear diverse, they are closely connected to major structural changes such as population ageing, technological disruption and climate change. These developments raise many important questions that we do not yet fully understand. My research is therefore largely driven by curiosity and a desire to better understand how economies, organisations and individuals respond to these changes.

   AI-generated image. Source: Manus AI

2. What is the focus of your research?

One area of my current research examines how lifelong learning and intergenerational support affect the well-being of older adults in Singapore. I am interested in whether continued learning, family interaction and different forms of support can contribute to more active and fulfilling ageing.

At the same time, I am studying developments related to the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, or CBAM, which imposes a carbon-related charge on certain carbon-intensive imports. This work examines how climate policies affect businesses, trade flows and economies outside the European Union.

A common misconception about economists is that we are all able to predict GDP growth or recommend which stocks to buy. Economics is a very broad discipline, and these are not the areas in which most economists specialise. Much of economics is instead concerned with understanding how individuals, firms and governments make decisions and how policies and institutions shape social and economic outcomes.

3. What excites you about your research?

What excites me most is the opportunity to develop a deeper and more evidence-based understanding of the issues I study. Through careful research, data analysis and engagement with the existing literature, we can move beyond assumptions and form our own informed interpretations of complex social and economic phenomena.

Research is particularly rewarding when the findings challenge conventional thinking, reveal previously overlooked relationships or raise new questions for further investigation.

4. How do you see the practical implications of your research affecting your field or society at large?


Economics research often includes a discussion of policy implications. However, economists must be careful not to make overly prescriptive recommendations, particularly when the evidence does not establish a clear causal relationship.

For me, the practical value of research lies in helping readers, policymakers and society better understand the economic and social phenomena around them. Even when research does not provide a definitive policy solution, it can identify important patterns, highlight trade-offs and provide evidence that contributes to more informed decision-making.

A/P Fang Zheng (center) at SERC conference 2026

AI-Generated image. Source: Manus AI

5. How does your research reflect SUSS' mission of achieving social good?

My research reflects SUSS’ mission by addressing issues that have direct relevance to individuals, communities and public policy. Research on ageing and well-being, for example, can contribute to a better understanding of how older adults may remain socially connected, economically active and engaged in lifelong learning.

Similarly, research on artificial intelligence, the labour market and climate policy can help policymakers and organisations anticipate emerging challenges and design more inclusive and sustainable responses. Some of this work may also be relevant to government ministries and public agencies, thereby contributing indirectly to policy development and social good.

6. What are your future plans in your research?

I hope to continue undertaking meaningful research that helps us better understand society and prepare for the future. In particular, I would like to further explore how population ageing, technological change and the transition towards a low-carbon economy affect individuals, businesses and labour markets.

Ultimately, my aim is to produce research that is academically rigorous while remaining relevant to real-world challenges and useful to policymakers, practitioners and the wider community.

Associate Professor Fang Zheng is the Director of the Office of Graduate Studies at SUSS.

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