Our approach involves both theoretical and empirical challenges, including defining and measuring key features of local economies - such as institutions, innovation systems or global connectivity - and develop robust empirical evidence of their relationship with key economic indicators such as growth, productivity, and employment.
Our research spans various regions, from Europe and USA to China, India and Africa. We seek to unravel the mechanisms by which all these factors influence and shape public policy effectiveness, offering strategic insights for policymakers to enhance the impact of development initiatives across diverse environments.
We also link regional and urban development to political dynamics, delving into how rising geographical, economic, and social inequality and justice are behind the rise of populism and political extremism, and at the root of stoking social unrest in many parts of the world.
Key research areas
Geography of Innovation and Innovation Policy
Global Value Chains and FDI
Governing (City-)Regions and Regional Development
Local Economic Growth and Development
Policy – Urban and Regional
Political Economy of Capitalism
Uneven Development and Regional Inequality
Urban Environmental Justice and Inequality
Experts
Neil Lee
Professor of Economic Geography
Erica Pani
Assistant Professor (Education) of Local Economic Development and Planning
Olmo Silva
Professor of Real Estate Economics and Finance
Related research centres and units
Our experts work closely with LSE's world-leading research centres. These include:
Related research seminars
We organise expert-led research seminars that take place throughout the year. Many are open to the public. These include: