Overview
The Institute aims to advance the study of the behavioural dimensions of public policy with a focus on sustainable development.
Most of its research is conducted in close collaboration with social sciences, the Humanities, and STEM, including multiple disciplines in Management studies. EEI also works with practice partners outside of academia – both Policymakers and corporate leaders. The approach is open and curious, making the best use of proven and promising new quantitative and qualitative research methods.
Empirical studies such as lab experiments and surveys as well as, conceptual research will advance methodology and theory within the field. There is also an interest in evidence synthesis and the use of social data science to help answer relevant questions.
The EEI draws on an established network of international collaborations and works closely with the Harvard Program on Behavioural Economics and Public Policy at Harvard Law School. These established links and engagement with external audiences will strengthen the impact of research of Cambridge Judge Business School, and of contributing departments and faculties at the University of Cambridge.
Key audiences
Academics, researchers and students, who are interested in:
- behavioural economics, psychology, behavioural sciences, management studies, data science
- engaging in behavioural research and solving policy problems
- working collaboratively across different disciplines, utilising solid methodological skills
EEI aims to design and deliver high-quality academic work, published in prestigious international academic journals. Research will also be made available to external audiences:
- The wider public: through general media outlets.
- Policymakers: seeking to inform evidence-based policymaking through publications, collaborating on papers, convening joint events.
- Business leaders and civil society organisations: advising on the application of behavioural insights
Core areas of activity
Engagement
The Institute aspires to be a platform for practitioners, students, and academics, creating open corridors of exchange for knowledge, data, and casework. Colleagues from different subject groups at Cambridge Judge Business School and the wider Cambridge environment are invited to join this platform, working together on research projects as well as in publications.
In addition to these opportunities, EEI’s existing links to international bodies offer an exciting opportunity for the exchange of data for research, work placements, career pathways for students, and access to real-world teaching cases.
Collaborations with leading behavioural research hubs include:
- Harvard Law School
- Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change (MCC)
- Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University
- Copenhagen Business School (BeaCon, Novo Nordisk Foundation)
In both research and teaching, the EEI is engaging with leading practice partners in behavioural insights and sustainability, such as:
- UN Innovation Network
- Behavioural Insights Team (BIT) UK
- OECD Network of Behavioural Insights Experts in Government
- WHO Behavioural Unit
- World Bank Innovation Hub
- EU Joint Research Centre
We welcome new partners and research ideas, just reach out to us.