DrOzge Yenigun

Within my broader research agenda that focuses on sustainable and equitable development, my current research focuses on social and economic inclusion and mobility of immigrants and other marginalized communities, planning for inclusive local economic development, and job creation, workforce development and community resilience in the context of low-carbon transitions.

My dissertation, titled Labor Market Inclusion of Refugees in Germany: From National Policies to Local Responses examined the role of local organizations and policies in affecting refugees’ labor market access and participation in Germany. Specifically, I analyzed how governmental and nongovernmental organizations build support and institutional capacity for the inclusion of refugees in work and society at the local scale, with a focus on labor market access and mobility, language learning, and skill development. 

My recent co-authored journal article, "From Capital to Capabilities: Human Development Theory and New Directions in Economic Development," published in the Journal of Education and Research in May 2022, investigates the potential of human development theory to provide alternatives to long-standing practical and conceptual problems in economic development, and documents the growth and diffusion of urban economic policies that enact human development ideas: local labor laws, reduced-cost education, and universal public programs across U.S. cities and states.

One of my current research projects, "Leaving No One Behind? Navigating Regional Socio-Economic and Employment Impacts in the Context of Just Transition", funded by Regional Studies Association (RSA) Early Career Grant Scheme, analyses the socio-economic impacts of transitioning to a low-carbon economy on vulnerable regions and to assess the effectiveness of policies and initiatives designed to support affected communities, with a particular focus on Ireland's Midlands.

Previously, I have been involved in various research projects covering a range of topics, such as the economic impact of research parks and business incubators, the circulation of human-centered urban policies and programs across the U.S. and EU, urban diversity, social mobility and urban economic growth, including the DIVERCITIES Project funded by the European Commission from 2013-2017. In 2021, I conducted an economic impact study for the University of Illinois Research Park and EnterpriseWorks, using an IMPLAN assessment and analyzing economic output, job creation, and the contributions of operations and construction activities to county, state, and federal governments.

My work has been supported by the Regional Studies Association, the Fulbright Grant, the Maria Pia Gratton International Fellowship, the UIUC Graduate College, and the Institute for Humane Studies, among others.