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WBS Behavioural Science Group

Policymakers Lab

Policymakers Lab

Economic and Social Research Council

Image credit: pdimariaLink opens in a new window used under pixabay content license

What is the Lab?

The Policymakers Lab comprises public servants and politicians from around the world interested in lending their expertise to contribute to and inform academic research. Policymakers in the Lab will receive invitations to complete online surveys, with opportunities for additional engagement. Policymakers in the Lab represent 13 countries across 4 continents, and counting!
 
Research drawing on insights from policymakers can shed light on the priorities and perspectives of those in important roles for society. Types of questions the Lab can address include:
 
  1. How can we effectively communicate research evidence to policymakers?
  2. What types of academic research are policymakers most interested in?
  3. What tools can help with difficult policy decisions and the use of evidence in policymaking?
By participating in the Lab, you will contribute crucial insights for this type of research. In appreciation for your participation, you will receive early access to research results and summaries of key insights from the Lab. In many cases you will also have the opportunity to opt into receiving small gift cards for the studies you complete.

 

The Policymakers Lab is hosted by Mattie Toma at the University of Warwick. You may contact Mattie with any questions at Mattie.Toma@warwick.ac.uk

If you are interested in participating, please click the "Sign Up Now" button below to complete an onboarding survey, which should take no more than 5 minutes of your time.

Sign Up Now

Am I eligible to participate?

Do you work, or did you formally work, in a role involving policymaking, regulatory, or legislative responsibilities, including but not limited to civil service and political roles in central government? If so, you are eligible, regardless of the particular policy area in which you work!

Will you respect my time?

All surveys administered in the Lab are reviewed beforehand, to ensure that they i) are relevant to policymaker decision-making, ii) do not place an undue burden on your time (e.g. take more than 15 minutes to complete), and iii) are developed by academics. All research projects run through the Lab will require ethical approvals.

Are my answers confidential?

Yes, your data will be protected, and your individual responses will never be shared without your permission

Further information for interested researchers

If you are interested in running a study through the Policymakers Lab, please complete the introductory survey. You may also contact Mattie Toma at Mattie.Toma@warwick.ac.uk with any questions.

Further resources and opportunities for researchers interested in working with policymakers can be found through the Warwick Policy Hub.