New centre will boost behavioural science impact

A new research centre, launched this week, offers new opportunities for expanding partnerships and impact in the study of behavioural science.

The Centre for Behavioural Science, which already has over 120 members from across the University’s arts and humanities, social sciences and science and health communities, was opened by its Director, Dr Dennie Van Dolder.

It builds on Essex’s decades-long reputation as a leader in behavioural science research, at the heart of which is the Behavioural Science Lab which offers an agile testing hub for world-class research.

Behavioural science – the interdisciplinary study of human behaviour through experimentation and observation – can help policymakers, businesses and other organisations design better policies, products and services.

The new multidisciplinary centre will make it easier for Essex researchers to work together, access the Lab and build partnerships with external organisations that can benefit from the University’s expertise and facilities.

Dr Van Dolder explained: “Understanding human behaviour is crucial in dealing with vast challenges, such as the spread of misinformation, digital safeguarding and climate change.

“At Essex, we have a critical mass of researchers working in behavioural science, a world-class, purpose-built lab offering a controlled environment for studying human judgement, decision-making, emotion, cognition and behaviour, and access to internationally-renowned research institutes.

“The creation of our new Centre for Behavioural Science enables our researchers to better tackle global challenges using robust experimental evidence and offers fresh opportunities to external partners that can benefit from our expertise.”

The new Centre will offer a range of business and research solutions to external partners.

“For more than three decades, the University of Essex has been a leader in behavioural science research and our work, such as that on the wellbeing benefits of green exercise, has been hugely influential,” said Professor Chris Greer, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research.

“Now is the time to build on that established expertise and expand the possibilities for collaboration. With our new Centre for Behavioural Science we can not only advance our own research but provide new partners with unparalleled opportunities to enhance what they do,” he added.