At the end of 2023, Stian Westlake, the new Executive Chair of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), visited LSE to meet with Professor Susana Mourato, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Dr Jen Fensome, Director of Research and Innovation, and other members of the LSE research community, including representatives from ESRC-funded Research Centres and projects.
During his visit he recognised the importance of LSE to fulfilling his ambitions - including ensuring the visibility of social sciences is sustained and actively considered by Government. He also expressed a wish to maintain a working relationship with the School.
In terms of priorities for the year ahead, Mr Westlake outlined the importance of impact to the ESRC; the ambition to better link to the medium and long term priorities of Government spending; the continuing development of the Simpler and Better Funding system (replacement of Je-S) to make sure administrative burdens are reduced; the commitment to supporting the full range of research careers; and a commitment to academic freedom.
Mr Westlake met with Professor Stephen Machin, Dr Anna Valero, Professor Sandra McNally and Professor Henry Overman of the Centre for Economic Performance, Lord Nicholas Stern and Professor Elizabeth Robinson of the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, and Professor Michael Bruter and Dr Sarah Harrison of the Electoral Psychology Observatory. Researchers had valuable discussions with Mr Westlake on areas including policy-relevant research; access to quality data; the need for increased investment in innovation; and the current limited options for funding for early career researchers and post-docs.
