This text has been translated from Norwegian with the assistance of GPT UiO.
– What preoccupies you at the moment?
At present, I'm heavily involved with what has become known as Stoltenberg's tax lottery. I'm exploring how we can conduct a large-scale experiment with taxation to learn as much as possible about how taxes impact work incentives and people's understanding of the tax system.
I'm also deeply distressed by the war in Gaza, and I often feel that what I'm working on is incredibly insignificant.
– If you were to explain to an eight-year-old what you do at work using three short sentences, what would you say?
I work on understanding how we can ensure more people want to work and are able to find a job. Additionally, I strive to understand why some people earn more than others. I am also a teacher for young adults at the university.
– What motivates you in your job?
I love the combination of having some days where I can sit quietly and take the time to understand things I initially find difficult, while on other days I can meet people, write for newspapers, and work on influencing economic policy.
I almost never work from home, as I'm also motivated by discussions with my wise colleagues, whether we agree or disagree, and by students who show interest in the subject.
– If you were to become something different, what would it be?
The eight-year-old in me would still love to become an astronaut. But the blend of mathematics and politics in economics was too tempting to resist.
– What do you do to completely unwind?
I go skiing in the forest or roller skiing in Maridalen. I'm one of those looking forward to winter.