In Honour and in Memory of Alberto Holly
A leading figure in Econometrics and Health Economics
The Nova SBE Health Economics & Management Knowledge Center honours the life and work of Alberto Holly, an exceptional scholar whose contributions helped shape modern econometrics and the development of health economics in Switzerland and internationally.
A central figure at HEC Lausanne, Alberto combined methodological rigour with institutional leadership, advancing research and teaching in econometrics, health economics, and health policy. His career reflects an uncommon ability to connect scientific excellence with real world relevance, strengthening the analytical foundations that inform policy and health system decision making.
Alberto maintained a close relationship with Nova School of Business and Economics over several years. He was part of the informal research community in health economics and taught at Nova SBE for many years, bringing deep econometric expertise and a distinctive clarity of thought to the classroom and to academic dialogue.
At Nova SBE, Alberto will be remembered for his deep econometric knowledge, his willingness to help everyone, and his enduring passion for inquiry, combined with a rare kindness and warmth. He never forgot his Portuguese roots, and the conversations sparked by his taste for and knowledge of painting were cherished parts of his teaching and research stays at Nova SBE, adding a distinctive cultural and human dimension to his academic presence.
Within the Nova SBE Health Economics & Management Knowledge Center community, Alberto was valued for the intellectual discipline he brought to academic work, his generosity in sharing knowledge, and his genuine commitment to supporting both colleagues and students. He engaged with all with the same seriousness and respect, offering guidance that was consistently rigorous, constructive, and elevating for the work around him.
Alberto’s engagement strengthened the Knowledge Center’s international perspective and academic culture. He helped anchor conversations in sound methods, encouraged careful reasoning over quick conclusions, and contributed to a research environment where quality and integrity come first. He will also be remembered for his kindness, warmth, and quiet humour, qualities that made collaboration with him both demanding and deeply rewarding.
Alberto Holly’s legacy endures through the scholars he mentored, the standards he set, and the institutions and communities he helped build.
The Nova SBE Health Economics & Management Knowledge Center is grateful for his sustained engagement and for the example he leaves behind.
Alberto Holly’s Academic Home at the University of Lausanne (UNIL)
Alberto Holly was a long-standing Professor at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), where he played a central role in the development of econometrics and health economics and in the creation of leading academic and research institutions in the field. A detailed tribute to his life and academic legacy, published by UNIL, is available here.