Richard Timothy Holden

Richard Timothy Holden is a Scientia Professor of Economics at UNSW Business School and Director of the Manos Innovation Lab in Education. He previously held faculty positions at the University of Chicago and MIT. Holden earned his AM and PhD in Economics from Harvard University. His research focuses on contract theory, organizational economics, blockchain applications, and public policy, with notable contributions to climate policy, healthcare governance, and institutional design. He has authored over 77 journal articles, 6 book chapters, and multiple reports on topics like carbon dividends and child-care policy. His work bridges economics with practical policy solutions, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to complex societal challenges.

Education

• PhD in Economics, Harvard University
• AM in Economics, Harvard University

Research Interests

Holden’s research spans contract theory, blockchain technology, climate change mitigation strategies, healthcare systems optimization, and political economy. He explores how institutional frameworks and economic incentives shape outcomes in public policy and organizational behavior. Recent work analyzes carbon offset mechanisms, digital currencies, and the ethical governance of clinical trials. His interdisciplinary approach integrates legal, technological, and social science dimensions into economic analysis.

Key Contributions

Holden’s publications address topics such as non-partisan redistricting, competitive neutrality in markets, and the role of blockchain in contract design. He co-authored books on post-COVID market reforms and blockchain’s potential to resolve contractual hold-ups. His 2023 collaboration on carbon offsets highlighted systemic flaws and proposed solutions for climate accountability. As President Emeritus of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, he advocates for evidence-based policymaking.

Labs & Teams

He leads the Manos Innovation Lab, which develops evidence-based educational tools and evaluates policy impacts. Collaborations span academia and industry, focusing on technology-driven solutions for healthcare, climate resilience, and equitable economic systems.