Torsten Bell appointed Honorary Professor at the UCL Policy Lab

Torsten Bell is one of Britain’s most prominent commentators on economic policy. In leading the Resolution Foundation, Bell has championed the idea that a better understanding of the complexities of economic life is fundamental to improving policymaking and to making Britain a fairer, more prosperous society..

Ahead of the announcement, Torsten Bell said he was “excited and honoured to be given such an Honorary Professorship.” And that he “looks forward to continuing to work with the incredible community of researchers at UCL to help tackle some of the most pressing economic challenges we face”.

The Lab’s Director, Marc Stears, welcomed the appointment also. He said: “Torsten is a leading contributor to our national debate concerning the cost of living and Britain’s economic model. He constantly displays the need to combine subtle and sophisticated analysis with real empathy for those on the frontline of our nation’s profound economic difficulties. UCL colleagues look forward to working with him in developing new ideas we all need for the future.”

Torsten Bell has a background in economic policy. He has led projects that have transformed public understanding of the labour market, tax and benefits, housing and wealth inequalities. His insights have been published in the Financial Times, the Guardian, the Observer and the New Statesman and he is a regular feature on television and radio. Torsten had previously been Director of Policy for the Labour Party and has experience working in HM Treasury as a member of the Council of Economic Advisers during the financial crisis.

The UCL Policy Lab aims to generate transformative ideas for disrupted times, and Torsten Bell will be a vital partner in that work.

Check out the interview with Torsten Bell in our latest UCL Policy Lab Magazine 'Ideas and Arguments for a New Economic Consensus'.