PhD Studentship: Endogenous Lying in Economic Environments

Why do people lie, and how do incentives shape dishonesty over time?

This fully funded PhD at the University of Essex offers the opportunity to answer these questions as part of a UKRI Frontier Research project at the cutting edge of economic theory.

We are seeking an ambitious doctoral researcher to join the Department of Economics and contribute to a project exploring Endogenous Lying in Economic Environments. You will investigate how and why individuals misreport information, how incentives to lie evolve, and how monitoring and enforcement influence behaviour.

Funding and duration

• Start date: October 2026
• Duration: 3 years
• Full tuition fee waiver (UK and international)
• Tax-free stipend at UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026–27)

Project overview

This project examines lying in dynamic economic environments, focusing on how behaviour changes over time. Key themes include whether individuals become desensitised to dishonesty, and how inspection and monitoring affect decision-making.

The research is grounded in core areas of economic theory, including contract theory, mechanism design, and dynamic games such as inspection games. These approaches provide powerful tools for understanding how incentives can be designed to promote truthful behaviour.

Your role

• Conduct original, high-quality research aligned with the project
• Work under the supervision of Professor Daniel Garrett
• Contribute to theoretical advances, with scope to engage behavioural and experimental perspectives
• Complete advanced PhD training in economics in year one

Why join Essex?

You will be part of a highly ranked and research-intensive department (4th in the UK for research power, REF 2021), with particular strengths in economic theory and behavioural and experimental economics. Essex offers a collaborative, supportive environment with a strong international reputation.

Person specification

We are looking for candidates with: 

• A strong academic background in economics and mathematics
• Training in relevant areas such as contract theory, mechanism design, or dynamic games
• Evidence of research potential
• Excellent written and spoken English
• A clear interest in the project topic

A merit-level MRes in Economics, or equivalent, is typically required.

How to apply

Please submit: 

• A letter of application
• CV and academic transcripts
• One academic writing sample

Your application should demonstrate your interest in the project and suitability for doctoral research. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview.

Application deadline: Monday 8 June 2026 (midday)

Take the next step in your research career and contribute to new insights into economic behaviour and decision-making.

Funding Details

Full fees and a tax-free UKRI stipend (£21,805 in 2026–27) for three years.

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