Uncover the definition, responsibilities, qualifications, and opportunities for Research Professor jobs in Behavioural Science. Gain insights into this research-intensive academic career.
Behavioural Science refers to the study of human behaviour through an interdisciplinary lens, combining elements from psychology, economics, neuroscience, and sociology to understand decision-making processes and design interventions that promote better outcomes. In the context of a Research Professor role, it involves leading cutting-edge studies on topics like cognitive biases, nudges (subtle changes in choice architecture to encourage positive behaviours), and applications in public policy, health, and finance. This field has grown significantly since the 1970s with pioneers like Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky challenging traditional economic assumptions of rational actors. Today, Research Professors in Behavioural Science contribute to real-world impact, such as reducing energy consumption through tailored feedback or improving vaccination uptake via simplified messaging.
A Research Professor in Behavioural Science dedicates their career to advancing knowledge through empirical research rather than classroom teaching. Daily tasks include formulating hypotheses based on behavioural theories, designing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or field experiments, analyzing data with advanced statistical methods, and disseminating findings via peer-reviewed journals like Science or Nature Human Behaviour. They often secure multimillion-dollar grants from funders such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) in the US or the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) in the UK. Collaboration is key, working with policymakers at organizations like the World Bank or the UK's Behavioural Insights Team (BIT), established in 2010. Unlike traditional professors, these roles emphasize impact metrics, such as citations (h-index above 30 is common for seniors) and policy citations.
To excel in Research Professor Behavioural Science jobs, candidates need a doctoral degree, typically a PhD in Behavioural Science, Economics, or Psychology. Research focus should centre on core areas like prospect theory, default effects, or social norms.
A solid academic CV is crucial; tips are available in resources like how to write a winning academic CV.
Research Professor positions in Behavioural Science are available worldwide, with hotspots in the US (e.g., University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School), UK (University of Warwick), and Australia (University of Sydney). The field has seen explosive growth post-2017 Nobel Prize in Economics for Richard Thaler, with demand rising 25% in job postings from 2018-2023 per academic databases. Aspiring professionals often progress from postdoctoral roles to junior research fellowships, building portfolios through conferences like the Society for Judgment and Decision Making annual meeting. Challenges include funding competition and replication crises, but opportunities abound in emerging areas like AI-driven behavioural nudges or climate behaviour change.
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