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About the Upwork Research Institute

The world of work is not the same as it was just a few years ago and leaders are facing brand new challenges as a result. The old work playbook is gone, and in its place, there are debates and decisions around workforce location, worker arrangements, and flexibility. However, leaders do not need to navigate this new world of work on their own.

The Upwork Research Institute is committed to studying the fundamental shifts in the workforce and providing business leaders with the tools and insights they need to navigate the here and now while preparing their organization for the future. Using our proprietary platform data, global survey research, partnerships, and academic collaborations, we will produce evidence-based insights to create the blueprint for the new way of work.

Meet the experts

Managing Director, Upwork Research Institute

Kelly Monahan, Ph.D

Dr. Kelly Monahan is the Founder and Managing Director of the Upwork Research Institute, where she leads research on emerging technologies, workforce transformation, and the rise of independent professionals. Previously, she held leadership roles at Meta, Accenture, and Deloitte, shaping future of work strategies for global organizations. She’s the author of two books, including the USA Today bestseller Essential, and a sought-after keynote speaker on talent innovation. Kelly holds a Ph.D. in organizational leadership and blends behavioral science with workforce strategy.

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Senior Research Manager, Upwork Research Institute

Gabby Burlacu, Ph.D

Dr. Gabby Burlacu is a Senior Research Manager at Upwork, focused on how organizations evolve their talent strategies in a rapidly evolving world of work. Her research has shaped workforce transformation efforts at Fortune 500 companies and appears in peer-reviewed journals and books. She holds a Ph.D. in industrial-organizational psychology from Portland State University and brings deep expertise in workplace behavior and inclusive, agile work models.

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Economist, Upwork Research Institute

Ted Liu, Ph.D

Dr. Ted Liu is an Economist at Upwork, where he studies how AI and technological change are transforming the labor market and reshaping skill demand. He holds a Ph.D. in economics from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and specializes in labor market dynamics and quantitative research. His work informs Upwork’s insights on workforce shifts, economic opportunity, and policy.

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