An analysis of ASN (2021-2023) and its impact on academic recruitment in public economics

Journal title ECONOMIA PUBBLICA
Author/s Roberto Dell’Anno
Publishing Year 2026 Issue 2026/2
Language English Pages 57 P. 163-219 File size 1238 KB
DOI 10.3280/EP2026-002001
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This paper presents an empirical and institutional evaluation of the Italian National Scientific Qualification (ASN) in the field of Public Economics (sector 13/A3), based on data from the 2021-2023 assessment cycle. The analysis examines the scientific profiles of applicants and those who qualified, focusing on their research output, thematic interests, and the determinants of qualification outcomes. We investigate whether obtaining the qualification leads to actual recruitment and how such effects vary across disciplinary sectors. Results indicate that the benefits of ASN (i.e., actual hiring into associate or full professorships) are largely concentrated among candidates already affiliated with Public Economics, and internal candidates exhibit a clear advantage over their external counterparts. These findings underscore the enduring influence of institutional proximity and network dynamics, despite the formal role of national evaluation standards. The study concludes with a set of targeted policy recommendations aimed at improving fairness, transparency, and the overall effectiveness of academic hiring practices in the Italian university system.

Keywords: higher education recruitment, research evaluation, national scientific qualification, public economics

Jel codes: H00, H83, I23, J45

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Roberto Dell’Anno, An analysis of ASN (2021-2023) and its impact on academic recruitment in public economics in "ECONOMIA PUBBLICA " 2/2026, pp 163-219, DOI: 10.3280/EP2026-002001