Our approach
We have methodological expertise in a range of quantitative and qualitative research and evaluation techniques. Our particular strengths are in the application of econometric techniques for programme evaluation, and the use of methods to investigate behaviour and decision making among individuals. While this focus is on quantitative evaluation, experimental methodologies and mathematical modeling, we also have experts in qualitative investigation and experience of leading research projects that utilise mixed methods of investigation.
Much of CER’s work has been published in renowned academic journals such as The Journal of Econometrics; Work, Employment and Society; The British Journal of Industrial Relations; and Oxford Economic Papers.
Together with an ability to contribute to academic debates at the highest level, the CER has a strong commitment to working with policymakers and a variety of practitioners. Consequently the team has become expert in communicating specialist knowledge to non-academic audiences.
A critical friend
Since the Centre was founded in 2004 we have carried out research for many UK and European government, public and practitioner bodies. In recent years these have included:
- Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
- HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
- Department for Business,Innovation & Skills (BIS)
- Ministry of Justice (Justice)
- Ministry of Defence (MoD)
- Department for Children,Schools and Families (DCSF)
- European Commission
- Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas)
- Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)
- Economic and Social ResearchCouncil (ESRC)
We contribute at the highest levels of academic debate, while also working with policymakers, practitioners and other funders of research, ensuring the relevance and impact of our work. This, together with an excellent understanding of the challenges that policymakers face, means that CER is uniquely placed to be a well-qualified critical friend delivering meaningful insights to policymakers and practitioners – particularly within the London policy and research communities.
Director: Professor Peter Urwin