OFRIA Ferdinando

Associate Professor of Economic Policy at the University of Messina. He holds a PhD in Economics and Development Policy from the University of Naples “Federico II” and the National Scientific Qualification for Full Professor in the academic recruitment field 13/A2 – Economic Policy (ASN 2023/2025).

He is the author of approximately 120 scientific publications. In 2002 he was awarded the SVIMEZ “Pasquale Saraceno” Prize for the book L’impatto criminale sulla produttività del settore privato dell’economia.

His research activity lies within the fields of economic policy and economic development, with particular reference to regional productivity disparities, the economics of crime, and the role of institutions in growth processes, as well as the analysis of market failures, public policies for the development of Southern Italy, and the dynamics of territorial development.

He is Scientific Coordinator of the University of Messina research unit within PRIN 2022. He was also appointed Expert to the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry on Counterfeiting, taking part in parliamentary hearings as an academic expert.

Alongside research and teaching activities, he is engaged in third mission initiatives, participating in science communication activities, public events, and dialogue with institutions and local stakeholders on issues related to economic development and public policy.

He also serves as referee for scientific journals and as evaluator for national and international institutions.

He currently serves as President of the Joint Teacher-Student Committee of the Department of Economics at the University of Messina.