Research that connects economic analysis, political dynamics and security questions to better understand global change.
Research
The Watson School conducts research across traditional academic boundaries to address pressing global, national and local policy challenges.
Research
The Watson School conducts research across traditional academic boundaries to address pressing global, national and local policy challenges.
Core Research Areas
Research at the Watson School spans international development, global security, democracy, social and economic policy, and technology, with climate change and inequality serving as cross-cutting themes that shape questions and connect work across these areas.
Research on the policies, institutions and global forces that shape development, opportunity and well-being.
Research on rights, democracy and the systems that shape justice, accountability and civic life.
Research on the policies and systems that shape economic opportunity, social well-being and public life.
Research in technology and policy examines how emerging technologies are reshaping governance, public services, and civic life. It explores both the policies that govern innovation and the ways tools such as AI are transforming what governments and institutions can do.
Research and Insights
Discover Watson research and scholarship shaping conversations about today’s most pressing public challenges.
The Watson School is proud to house several region or topic-focused centers, initiatives and programs that are dedicated to research, teaching and outreach. These entities also serve as conveners, sponsoring informative events that inspire dialogue among scholars, students and the public.
The Watson School Research Policy Labs enhance the School's mission to promote a just, peaceful and prosperous world through research, teaching and public engagement through a combination of active faculty research, student training, research-based courses and engagement with the world of practice.
Explore recent faculty research, from published papers and books to awards and other notable contributions.
Search Watson faculty expertise by region and topic to find scholars whose research can inform reporting, policy conversations and public understanding.
Research Opportunities
The School offers a variety of research and funding opportunities for faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduate and graduate students.