Research
We are proud of our research at Bristol. Our world-class academics and cutting-edge research led us to be ranked sixth overall and first for impact in the most recent REF (2014).
The School of Economics hosts four Research Groups, with strengths across the board in microeconomic theory, macroeconomics, econometrics and applied microeconomics. Our research environment also boasts a vibrant workshop and seminar programme.
We have been awarded Legacy Centre Status by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) for our Centre for Evidence-based Public Services (CEPS) which aims to deliver policy impact through conducting data-intensive research on public services, including health, education and welfare reform.
And, we are host to the Economics Observatory (ECO), which draws on UK-wide expertise to answer economic questions arising from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Research groups
Find out more about our research groups.
Coronavirus research hub
Featured COVID-19 economics research and resources.
Our research impact
- School of Economics Coronavirus Research 3 June 2021
- Advising HM Treasury on pension policy 25 July 2016
- Raising school attainment and informing parent choice 23 March 2016
Bristol is among the top economics departments in the UK. Our research is internationally-recognised for its originality, significance and rigour, and delivers real-world policy impact.
Working paper series
Read our recent working papers list.
Ranked 1st for Impact
In the Times Higher Education analysis of REF 2014, the School of Economics was rated first in the UK for the impact of its research, with case studies drawn from healthcare, education and energy regulation. Since then, we have continued to disseminate our research to a wide audience.
Policy Briefings
Academics within the School have produced the following PolicyBristol Briefings:
Nutrition labelling helps individuals choose healthier foods, Professor Stephanie von Hinke
Provide women with information about the risk of pregnancy, Dr Christine Valente
Immigrant pupils more likely to think school can help them succeed than UK-born peers, Professor Simon Burgess
Behaviour incentives raise GCSE attainment in schools in poor neighbourhoods, Professor Simon Burgess
Research blogs
Read the latest research blogs from our academics.