Keynote Lecture on "Why proven technologies fail to spread: institutions, incentives, and the case of hearing health" by Dr. James A. Robinson, 2024 Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences, Announced as Keynote Speaker for CI2026 Chicago
Washington, D.C.: Dr. James A. Robinson has been selected to deliver a keynote lecture at CI2026 Chicago entitled “Why proven technologies fail to spread: institutions, incentives, and the case of hearing health.” CI2026 Chicago will be held May 6-9, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Chicago (IL).
James A. Robinson is a Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences and Professor of Political Science and Public Policy at the University of Chicago, whose groundbreaking research has reshaped how scholars and policymakers understand the role of institutions, incentives, and norms in shaping prosperity and the adoption of transformative technologies. Awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize for his work on how institutions are formed and how they determine who benefits from innovation, Professor Robinson is widely recognized for his rare ability to translate deep, rigorous scholarship into clear, compelling insights for diverse audiences.
An engaging and generous speaker, he combines intellectual authority with humility, curiosity, and genuine respect for practitioners, making his talks both thought-provoking and accessible. Having spoken openly about his own experience with hearing loss and long-term hearing aid use, he brings a deeply personal perspective to conversations about hearing health, further grounding his work in empathy, insight, and lived experience.
CI2026 Chicago features keynotes, podium talks, special sessions, and exhibitions applicable to audiologists, physicians, speech pathologists, psychologists, scientists, engineers, educators, students, advocates, and others involved in cochlear implantation. The conference will provide attendees with opportunities to explore current global topics for cochlear implant patients across the lifespan.
Registration and information for CI2026 Chicago is open with early bird rates available through March 18, 2026, at www.CI2026Chicago.org. The conference program will be published in late January.
ACI Alliance is a not-for-profit membership organization created with the purpose of eliminating barriers to cochlear implantation by sponsoring research, driving heightened awareness, and advocating for improved access to cochlear implants for patients of all ages across the US.
