Tim Hanson

Tim Hanson is a Senior Research Fellow at the European Social Survey (ESS) Headquarters, based at City, University of London, where he leads the Questionnaire Design and Fieldwork work packages. He joined City in November 2019 after spending 15 years at Kantar, where he rose from graduate trainee to Research Director. His work focuses on advancing survey methodology across multiple European countries through the ESS, a rigorous comparative biennial survey of changing attitudes and values.

Dr. Hanson holds a BA in Geography and Sociology from the University of Sheffield (2000-2003). His primary research interests center on adapting surveys for modern technological contexts, particularly exploring the design and adaptation of surveys based on online/mixed-mode approaches, mobile device optimization for surveys, item nonresponse patterns, video interviewing techniques, and general questionnaire design principles.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent research trajectory focused on how device type affects survey responses. His work systematically examines smartphone optimization for surveys, grid question formats for mobile devices, and demographic correlates of device usage in mixed-mode surveys. This research addresses critical challenges in contemporary survey methodology as the field transitions toward device-agnostic data collection approaches.

At City, University of London, Dr. Hanson delivers lectures on questionnaire design and nonresponse as part of the Social Research Methods Masters module, sharing his expertise with the next generation of researchers. His professional activities include presenting at major conferences such as the European Survey Research Association Conference and the General Online Research Conference, where he has shared findings on innovative survey methodologies.

Dr. Hanson's work spans multiple major UK social surveys including Understanding Society Innovation Panel, Community Life Survey, European Social Survey, 1958 National Child Development Study, and the Second Longitudinal Study of Young People in England. His research has practical implications for survey design across governmental and academic contexts, particularly as the UK moves toward increased online data collection including for the 2021 Census.