BIT appoints first chief behavioural scientist

The role gives Hallsworth the task of positioning BIT at the cutting edge of applied behavioural science, as well as publishing commentary on the subject.

Hallsworth has been with BIT, also known informally as ‘the nudge unit', since its launch, most recently as managing director in the Americas. Previously, he was a senior policy adviser in the Cabinet Office of the UK government. 

He has a PhD in behavioural economics from Imperial College London, and an MA and MPhil from the University of Cambridge. He is an Assistant Professor (Adjunct) at Columbia University, and an Honorary Lecturer at Imperial College London.

“We are so pleased that Michael is stepping into this vital new role at BIT,” said Rachel Coyle, BIT’s global managing director. 

“BIT has always broken new ground in behavioural science, translating it from academia into public policy and services, and using it to drive direct improvements to people’s wellbeing.

“Michael’s experience and expertise mean he is perfectly placed to represent BIT as a world leader in applied behavioural science, and help us in our commitment to always push the potential and ambition of our work.”