Endogenous Lying in Economic Environments

Background

The candidate is expected to work in the context of and to contribute to the UKRI Frontier Research grant `Endogenous Lying in Economic Environments’ (grant number EP/Z001528/1). This grant aims at improving our understanding of lying and incentives to lie especially in dynamic economic environments, where for instance the costs of lying may evolve with time. It also investigates the role of monitoring and inspection in dynamic settings.

Methodologically, the research focuses on contract theory and mechanism design, and on dynamic games such as inspection games. Lying is often potentially central to work in these areas where incentive constraints encode the deterrence of lying and can be affected by a distaste for lying or other lying costs. One question is the possible implications of agents who become desensitised to the costs of lying over time.

Project opportunities

• The doctoral researcher will carry out research related to the themes of the grant as described above, under the direction of the Principal Investigator (Daniel Garrett). At least some of this work should be theoretical in nature, relating to contract theory, mechanism design and dynamic games as described above.
• The opportunity to work in a strong economics department (fourth for research power, REF2021) with relevant strengths in economic theory and in behavioural and experimental economics.
• The successful applicant will receive advanced research training and expert supervision, including undertaking the coursework requirements in the first year of the PhD as part of the University of Essex PhD Economics degree.
• The training provided will support the conduct of the research itself and career preparation, including preparation for a career as an academic economist or for economist careers that require or are enhanced by obtaining a PhD in economics.

Funding

The duration of this studentship is 3 years, commencing October 2026 and includes:

• An annual Stipend at the UKRI minimum rate (£21,805 for 2026/27).
• Payment of PhD tuition fees.

The Studentship Award covers 3 years of funding for a full-time PhD standard period. Due to the grant end date, there are no possible extensions to the studentship funding and part-time study is not possible. The Studentship Award is open to both UK and International students (EU and non-EU students who do not have residency).

Person specification

Applicants for this studentship will need to meet the standard admissions requirements for the PhD Economics. For UK students, this is described as: “A merit profile in an MRes Economics, or an equivalent programme, normally with 60% or above (or equivalent) in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics and mathematics modules, and submission of the dissertation.” Qualifications that can be deemed equivalent to this may also be accepted.

Eligibility for entry into the PhD programme will need to be assessed as part of selection.

Following a successful interview, the applicant who is made an offer of the award will need to apply for the PhD via the standard PGR admissions process, if they have not already done so.

Essential qualifications and skills

• Training and background in theoretical economics, with knowledge of areas such as contract theory, mechanism design, and dynamic games strongly sought but not essential. This could be evidenced for instance through prior coursework or independent research.
• Evidence of ability to complete independent research under supervision.
• Outstanding English-language oral and written communication abilities.
• Strong background in mathematics at a level required to carry out research in relevant fields of economic theory. This could be evidenced, for instance, through previous coursework or through previous research.  
• An interest in and willingness to complete research related to the grant topics. In particular, research on contract theory and mechanism design and especially dynamic and behavioural approaches to these topics. Another focus of the grant is on dynamic games and particularly games involving monitoring and inspection.
• An interest and willingness to address grant topics at least partly from an economic theory and/or behavioural economic theory perspective is essential. However, candidates with interests in related areas such as behavioural and experimental economics will also be considered.
• A willingness to collaborate with the Principal Investigator Daniel Garrett on research related to grant topics.

Desirable qualifications and skills

• Knowledge of or awareness of approaches in behavioural economics and/or behavioural economic theory.
• Experience delivering theoretical economics research.

How to apply

Applicants should submit a letter of application, supported by a CV and academic transcripts, and one writing sample.

The letter of application should explain why you are interested in the research themes linked to this doctoral award, and what makes you a good fit for the project. This might include a summary of any relevant education, training or experience that has prepared you for undertaking this project, and how you meet the specified qualifications for the post.

Your writing sample may be on any topic but should demonstrate your ability to write at the PhD level in English on a project in economics. The writing sample should be your best piece evidencing your academic writing ability.

The selection panel will assess your letter of application against both the essential and desirable qualifications and skills; please ensure your application materials address how you meet them.

Finalists will be invited to a Zoom-based interview. Interviews are likely to take place during the week commencing 22 June 2026. Notice of at least one week will be given to shortlisted interviewees.

Instruction to applicants 

Initial inquiries should be directed to Professor Daniel Garrett (d.garrett@essex.ac.uk).

Deadline

Final applications should be submitted to d.garrett@essex.ac.uk by the deadline of midday (12pm) Monday 8 June 2026.