At the Duke Sanford School of Public Policy, faculty conduct interdisciplinary research on today's most pressing policy challenges—and bring those insights directly into the classroom. Students learn from scholars whose research informs governments, nonprofits and organizations around the world, gaining firsthand exposure to evidence-based policymaking while exploring opportunities to engage in research alongside faculty.
Key Themes
Energy & Environment
Sanford faculty research the policies shaping climate action, clean energy, environmental justice, and sustainable resource management. Their work helps governments, organizations and communities address complex environmental challenges through evidence-based solutions.
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Health Policy
Sanford researchers study how policy influences health care access, affordability, quality, and population health. Their work examines the forces shaping health care delivery and outcomes, helping to inform policies that improve health outcomes.
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International Development Policy
Working across disciplines and in partnership with communities, governments and organizations, Sanford faculty conduct research that informs sustainable development around the world. Their work informs policies that reduce poverty, expand access to health care and education, strengthen governance, advance peacebuilding, address climate risks, and create economic opportunity.
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Media & Democracy
Sanford researchers are exploring topics such as elections and voter rights, misinformation and political communication, media policy, and digital governance, helping policymakers and the public better understand how media, information and public policy shape democratic societies.
Explore media and democracy at Sanford.
National Security & Foreign Policy
Sanford faculty study the policies that shape national security, diplomacy and international cooperation, and examine topics including conflict, defense strategy, international institutions, cyber threats and geopolitical change, producing research that informs decision-makers and public debate.
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Social Policy
Investigating social challenges related to education, housing, criminal justice, family well-being, economic mobility opportunity and more, Sanford researchers are helping to identify solutions and policy that can improve lives and communities.
Explore social policy at Sanford.
Technology Policy
From artificial intelligence, data brokerage and cybersecurity to digital equity and ethics, Sanford researchers are helping bridge the gap between long-term policy research and rapidly evolving technologies.
Student Opportunities
Sanford's centers, programs and initiatives bring together faculty, students and policy leaders around pressing policy issues. Through these interdisciplinary hubs, students have opportunities to contribute to research projects, and engage with policymakers, practitioners and community partners.