An application for 2025 entry to the PhD Economics should include a Research Statement, along with other required information (Note: A separate sample of Written Work is not required as part of the PhD Economics application).
Your Research Statement should be submitted in place of the Outline Research Proposal, along with your application form and other required supporting documents, via the LSE online application system (see the PhD Economics Admissions FAQs).
What should my Research Statement contain?
Please answer the following questions clearly and concisely. Max 200 words per question.
1. Why do you want to do research in economics?
2. Can you explain how your studies and experience make you suitable to do research in economics?
3. Which aspect of the PhD do you think you will like the most? Which will you dislike the most? Why?
4. Tell us about your favourite paper in economics. What do you like about it? How would you improve it?
5. Write a comment for a general audience on ONE of the following topics
(i) Is inequality good for growth?
(ii) Do immigrants take the jobs of native workers?
(iii) Is CEO compensation excessive?
(iv) Is universal minimum income a good idea?
(v) Overall, has central banks' move to inflation targeting been a success?
(vi) Is culture an important determinant of differences in income per capita across countries?
(vii) Markets function well as information is aggregated efficiently through prices.
(viii) Elections are effective at disciplining politicians who do not have the public interest as their main goal.
How can I demonstrate research potential?
If you have served as research assistant for an economist please ask that person to write a letter focussing on your research skills and describe your experience – reference point 2 (above) of the research statement.
If not, please list any evidence you think would be valuable. Examples include but are not restricted to: experience working autonomously under stress without any guidance, demonstration of creativity in any form, experience of writing original research.