Professor Tali Kristal is Professor and Vice Dean of Research in Department of Sociology, the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Haifa.
Prof. Kristal has made significant contributions to the fields of stratification, economic sociology, political sociology, income inequality, labour markets, and labour unions.
Throughout her career, Professor Kristal has delved into the complex dynamics of labour markets and income distribution, both in Israel and internationally. Her ground-breaking research on the decentralization of collective agreements and the decline in unionization in Israel highlighted their role in exacerbating wage inequality.
She explored and documented extensively the broader social and economic forces shaping labour’s share of national income in various countries. Her work challenged prevailing theories by demonstrating the significant impact of labour unions on income inequality, particularly in the context of technological change.
In her recent studies, Professor Kristal has explored the intricate relationship between technology, labour unions, and income inequality. Her research, funded by prestigious grants such as the European Research Council Consolidator Grant and the Israel Science Foundation, has shed light on how computerization and declining union power contribute to rising earnings inequality.
Beyond her academic endeavours, Professor Kristal is actively engaged in public discourse and policymaking. She serves on editorial boards of leading sociological journals, organizes international conferences, and contributes to global initiatives, such as the UN framework for socio-economic response to COVID-19.
With her extensive publication record, esteemed awards, and dedicated service to academia and society, Professor Tali Kristal continues to shape scholarly discourse and inspire future generations of sociologists.