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By Beth Kocher Gormley, Communications and PR Manager, UCD College of Business

“I am excited to join the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School as an Adjunct Associate Professor,” said Dr Lisa Wilson, Senior Economist in the Nevin Economic Research Institute (NERI). “I look forward to collaborating with colleagues, particularly with Professor John Geary, on the UCD Working in Ireland Survey, an all-island study focused on job quality and working conditions across the island of Ireland. This is an important area of research that aligns with my work on improving job quality and economic policy, and I’m thrilled to contribute to this impactful study.”

As a Senior Economist in NERI, Dr Wilson has led research on labour market economics and fiscal policy in Northern Ireland. Since 2016, her evidence-based studies have directly informed policy debates and contributed to practical solutions aimed at improving the labour market and reducing inequality.

Beyond her research, Dr Wilson has played a pivotal part in shaping economic policy in Northern Ireland. She served as one of four commissioners on the Northern Ireland Independent Fiscal Commission, where she helped assess the technocratic case for further devolution of fiscal powers to Northern Ireland. Additionally, since February 2024, Dr Wilson has been appointed as an Independent Expert to the Minister for Economy in Northern Ireland, focusing on the "Good Jobs" pillar of the Department for Economy’s Economic Vision. In these roles, she has been at the forefront of connecting research insights with real-world policy decisions.

Dr Wilson holds a PhD from Queen’s University Belfast. Her dissertation, undertaken under the guidance of Professor Mike Tomlinson, examined income inequality and well-being. Her thesis was examined by Professor Brian Nolan from Oxford University. Dr Wilson was also a key member of the ESRC-funded UK Poverty & Social Exclusion Survey, contributing to collaborative research among UK universities.

At UCD, Dr Wilson will continue her research on labour economics. One of her primary areas of focus will be engaging with UCD colleagues on the UCD Working in Ireland Survey, an all-island study focused on job quality and working conditions across the island of Ireland.

“I am thrilled to be able to contribute to UCD’s academic community and am excited for the opportunity to work alongside leading researchers in the area of labour economics. An opportunity I truly value,” she concluded.