My research is primarily in health economics and applied econometrics. I can supervise topics only where I am able to give substantive guidance on methodology, data, and institutional context. If your interests lie far from these areas, another faculty member is likely to be a better match; please review my publication list before applying.
For applicants to the Master's programme
You need not contact me in advance. Simply write my name as your prospective supervisor in your application materials. Selection is based on the submitted documents.
For applicants to the Doctoral programme
You are expected to submit a writing sample — such as your master's thesis or a substantial research paper — demonstrating your academic ability. I cannot respond to inquiries that do not include a writing sample.
Master's programme
A strong foundation in economics, econometrics, mathematics, and statistics is expected, at the level of the texts listed below. For econometrics in particular, I expect you to understand the concepts of selection bias and endogeneity, as well as the main approaches to addressing them.
Microeconomics: Varian, Intermediate Microeconomics, is the minimum I expect you to have mastered; command of Varian, Microeconomic Analysis, is preferable
Econometrics: Stock & Watson, Introduction to Econometrics, or Wooldridge, Introductory Econometrics: A Modern Approach
Causal inference: Angrist & Pischke, Mastering 'Metrics
Mathematics: Chiang & Wainwright, Fundamental Methods of Mathematical Economics, or an equivalent undergraduate-level mathematics textbook
Doctoral programme
In addition to the above:
Graduate-level microeconomics: Mas-Colell, Whinston & Green, Microeconomic Theory, or Kreps, A Course in Microeconomic Theory
Graduate-level econometrics: Wooldridge, Econometric Analysis of Cross Section and Panel Data, Cameron & Trivedi, Microeconometrics: Methods and Applications, or Hayashi, Econometrics. Verbeek, A Guide to Modern Econometrics, is a useful complement
Causal inference: Angrist & Pischke, Mostly Harmless Econometrics, and Cunningham, Causal Inference: The Mixtape
Strong programming skills for data management, statistical, and numerical analysis (Stata, R, Python)
Your proposal should clearly state the following four elements:
Research questions and why they matter
Existing literature and what remains unknown or unresolved
Expected academic contribution — that is, how your research will be innovative
Methodology — how you will credibly answer your research questions
Your research proposal is your opportunity to demonstrate both your knowledge and your creativity. Because it forms part of a selection process, I do not answer questions about, or provide feedback on, draft proposals.
I am selective in order to avoid mismatches that may hinder your academic development. Failure to obtain my acceptance does not mean that you lack ability — you may well find another supervisor better aligned with your research interests and potential.
Toshiaki Aizawa
Hokkaido University
Last updated: August 2026
Acknowledgement: This form is based on the style of Dr. Kono at Kyoto Univ.