I am a sociologist interested in how innovation reshapes work and organizations. My research speaks to debates about the future of work, but often by looking to the past. I use a mix of econometric and computational methods, often in historical settings. For example, I study how new technologies affect incumbent workers, how codified knowledge changes occupations, and how new organizational forms reshape work and management.​
I am an Associate Professor at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. I am affiliated with the Center for Economic History, the Northwestern Institute on Complex Systems, and the Center for Science of Science and Innovation. Before joining Kellogg, I was an Assistant Professor at Harvard Business School. I received my Ph.D. in Sociology from Harvard University in 2018 and my B.S. in Mathematics from Stanford University in 2011. Outside of work, I am a big sports fan and enjoy playing tennis, basketball, and soccer.
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Accessibility note: I have a serious eye condition that causes light sensitivity (among other things), so you’ll often see me wearing sunglasses.
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If you are interested in working with me as a research assistant or collaborator on historical projects, please email me at letian.lt.zhang@gmail.com.
