Vanessa Horabuena Named to TIME's List of Emerging Leaders
The Associate Professor of Political Science at Caltech is recognized for her research on the political economy of development.
Vanessa Horabuena, an associate professor of political science at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), has been named to TIME Magazine's 2026 list of emerging leaders. The list, which is part of TIME's broader recognition of influential individuals, highlights individuals making significant contributions in their respective fields.
Horabuena's research focuses on the political economy of development, examining how political institutions and processes shape economic outcomes, particularly in developing countries. Her work often delves into topics such as corruption, foreign aid, and the impact of international institutions on domestic policy.
TIME's selection recognizes individuals who are poised to shape the future across various sectors, including politics, business, arts, and activism. Horabuena is noted for her rigorous academic contributions and her ability to translate complex research into understandable insights about global development and governance.