As International Fellow at the IPR, Professor Duncan will visit the University to share his experiences of US policy on social policy issues and to learn from research carried out here in Bath. His position will also help to raise the profile of the IPR in the United States.

Economist and Distinguished Professor of Education at the University of California, Irvine, Professor Duncan’s own research focuses on economics and social policy issues involving welfare reform, income distribution and its consequences for children and adults.

He is currently pioneering research into poverty in the US, hoping to launch a large-scale randomised controlled trial to assess the impact of providing financial supplements for low-income mothers on children’s development and wider family relations.

In his new post, it is hoped that Professor Duncan can spearhead greater collaborative working between Bath academics and US counterparts on issues of shared interest.

He said: “Innovative social policy research and interventions are being developed on both sides of the Atlantic. I am excited about the opportunity to exchange insights and cook up new ideas.”

IPR Director, Professor Hugh Lauder said: "We are delighted that Professor Duncan will be coming to Bath. His research touches on some of the key issues relating to poverty, social welfare and education that confront this country. His work will be of interdisciplinary interest to researchers across the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences."

Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Jane Millar added: “The University is delighted to welcome Professor Duncan as the new IPR International Fellow. With his experience and expertise Professor Duncan will enhance the IPR’s links in the US, and will also directly benefit Bath researchers and our students here in the UK. We look forward to working closely with him.”