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Faculty of Social Sciences

Understanding Real-World Economic Challenges

June 02, 2026

Graham Voss
Dr. Graham Voss, Chair, Department of Economics, UVic.

Researcher Profile: Dr. Graham Voss

Dr. Graham Voss is the incoming Chair of UVic’s Department of Economics. He studies applied macroeconomics which looks at how national economies work in the real world. For instance, how governments and central banks respond to economic challenges, such as, high unemployment, slow economic growth or high inflation.

What sparked your interest in economics as a career?

I honestly can’t remember. I started university, here at the University of Victoria, with some intention of going on to law school and somewhere I got the idea that an economics degree would be a way to pursue that. Which led me to take ECON 100, taught by Bill Walsh, which I enjoyed very much and cemented my decision to continue with economics.

When graduation came around, it just seemed natural (easier) to continue on to graduate school in economics rather than law, which is what I did. (And as I graduated in the mid-80s in BC, there were not a lot of employment opportunities – so graduate school was a good option.) As I got further into my studies and career, my interests turned more and more to economic policy, which has stuck with me to this day. So, nothing really inspirational – economics just seemed a good fit.

What do you enjoy the most about working at UVic?

My colleagues and our students. I’ve had the good fortune to work in a great department for some 25 years with supportive and interesting colleagues. As well, I’ve met and taught a lot of (mostly) wonderful students. One of the best parts about teaching is seeing what they do and how they succeed after they finish their studies with us. Economics provides a foundation for lots of different career paths, which in its own way is very rewarding.

In your role as chair of the department, what do feel is your strength as a leader?

Competence and pragmatism (I hope).

Is there one particular goal you hope to achieve during your time as chair?

Our department has experienced a great deal of change in recent years, going from a situation of large enrolments that put a great deal of strain on the department to one of lower and more stable enrolments. This change provides the opportunity to think hard about our programmes and ensure they are well-designed and best meet the needs of our students.

Do you have any extra-curricular activities that help with work-life balance?

I will have to get back to you on the work-life balance after I’ve been in the role for a while.