In this course, we will guide you through conducting an empirical research project in the Economics of Distribution, from developing a research question and working out a methodology to writing a short research paper. This will be done in groups of up to four students. In this course, we will center on research questions relevant to research on inequality; students can also propose projects related to the field course Economics of Distribution.

At the end of the course, you have

• a good command of the programming language R, have learned how to perform an empirical analysis using survey data, and have gained experience working with the SCF data, the Microcensus or a related dataset.
• improved your general academic skills, such as developing a relevant research question and a research design and academic writing and presentations.
• obtained a sound understanding of methods heavily used in contemporary empirical inequality research.
• improved your ability to evaluate research designs critically.

The course mainly consists of synchronous dates; attendance is compulsory. Absence in a class must be compensated; otherwise, it will result in a loss of points.

The course introduces survey data on wealth and labor and discusses conceptual questions relevant to empirical inequality research. Using data from the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF) and the Austrian Microcensus, we will illustrate how to use survey data for empirical (inequality) research using the programming language R. The instructors will discuss selected aspects of the research process, such as reading academic papers, research writing, and academic presentations. Depending on the specific nature of the group projects, we will discuss and apply selected micro-econometric methods and group-specific questions. 

Students must present their research idea after the beginning of the course (November 6) and the outcomes of their research projects at the end of the term (January 15 and January 22). A research paper has to be delivered by the end of the term. Students have to work on the research project throughout the semester. Each group member has to contribute significantly to the group project.

15 % - Homework

10 % - Presentation I: Presentation of the research idea

35 % - Presentation II: Final presentation of the outcomes of the research project

40 % - Seminar paper

Grading scheme

100 %  -  90 %:     Excellent

 89 %   -  80 %:     Good

 79 %   -  65 %:     Satisfactory

 64 %   -  50 %:     Sufficient

<50%:                   Not sufficient

Successful completion of the Field Course: Economics of Distribution in a previous semester or enrollment in the winter term of 2026 is required.

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