About

The Program in Behavioral Economics Research is dedicated to studying the psychological mechanisms that drive economic behaviors across different environments. Through a blend of theoretical insights and empirical research, our affiliates seek to bridge the gap between traditional economic models and the nuanced nature of human decision-making.

The program aims to provide resources to PhD students and junior faculty to assist them in their research in the field of behavioral economics. Please contact the program directors with questions on how the program can support your work in behavioral economics.

Available Courses for PhD Students

Affiliated with the Program in Behavioral Economics Research

• • 38916 – Behavioral Economics – Development & Observational Data (Joshua Dean and Devin Pope)
  • 38917 – Topics in Behavioral Economics (Leo Bursztyn)
  • 38918 – Behavioral Economics – Theory & the Lab (Alex Imas)
  • 41300 – A Course in Experimental Economics (John List)

Resources for Students

As part of its mission to assist early career researchers, the program provides small grants for PhD students and Postdoctoral researchers. The limit on grants is $10,000 and the grant’s use is restricted to research purposes. We encourage potential applicants to present their work at one of the labs associated with the PBER prior to submitting to ensure that the project is a good fit for the Program and to receive feedback prior to submission. The labs include: The Booth BE Lab or the Normal Lab.

If you are interested in applying for a grant from the program, please submit a 1-2 page research plan and budget at the link below. Note that there is no deadline for grant applications. All applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis.

https://forms.gle/bqGUVpedSLiCUtf77

Fall 2025 Behavioral Economics Seminar Series

All times are from 12 – 1:15 PM CT. Click here for more information.

*Please note that on October 20, 2025, the workshop is being hosted by the Behavioral Science workshop and thus has a different time and location noted on the agenda.

Affiliated Labs

The Booth Behavioral Economics Lab

The Behavioral Economics Lab Group is comprised primarily of PhD students across the University along with behavioral economics faculty members at Booth. The group serves as a space for discussing ideas, building friendships, and receiving feedback.

Each week, we come together for an informal discussion on a wide range of topics, allowing a fun exchange of ideas. This is followed by a student presentation of early-stage research. Students are given the opportunity to improve their presentation skills and get valuable feedback from the group. View website

The Normal Lab

At The Normal Lab, economics research—and the policies and solutions it inspires—must consider the interplay between individuals and their social environments. Under the leadership of University of Chicago Professor Leonardo Bursztyn, the Lab’s work combines the rich toolbox of economics—from observational data analysis to field experiments to theory—with insights from psychology, anthropology, and other fields. View website