Methodology

To ensure robust and reliable studies, researchers at LABEL undertake essential steps, including formulating clear hypotheses, designing appropriate methods, and crafting comprehensive analysis plans well before collecting data. Establishing these analysis protocols beforehand reduces the likelihood of data-driven decisions or post hoc analyses, which could introduce biases or cherry-picking of results. We carry analysis plans to ensure transparency, objectivity, and reproducibility 

Data Sharing

LABEL complies with data sharing requirements of many funding agencies, institutions, and publication venues. We share research material (methods, data and software) for others to replicate or build on. All material can be found on our GitHub repositoryafter publication. Data sharing promotes transparency and openness.

Working with Human Subjects

Researchers at LABEL assess potential ethical implications and adhere to best practices in research conduct. We prioritize the well-being and rights of study participants, we inform them of any risk and benefit of studies, we allow them to withdraw at any time and we protect their confidentiality. All our studies are reviewed by the USC IRB and all personnel are trained to comply with IRB guidelines.

Intellectual property and authorship

LABEL complies with the guidelines of the ICMJE, which state that an author is someone who (1) has actively participated in all aspects of a work’s creation, including making substantial contributions to the conception or design, acquiring and analyzing data and drafting the work and (2) has provided critical intellectual content. Additionally, (3) authors must give final approval for the version to be published and (4) agree to be accountable for the work’s entirety, ensuring that any questions regarding its accuracy or integrity are properly addressed.

Contributors who do not meet all these criteria should not be listed as authors but should still be acknowledged. These contributors are typically individuals who have provided technical help, writing assistance, or short-term research support. 

These principles apply equally to faculty and students.  

Diversity and Inclusion

LABEL is committed to fostering an environment that promotes diversity and inclusion, where each person’s unique perspectives and voices are acknowledged, respected, and valued. LABEL is committed to research ways to promote opportunities to researchers from under-represented minorities.

LABEL fosters inclusive opportunities for high-schoolers, undergraduates, graduates, and predoctoral students to actively participate in research.

Our admissions process is designed to actively seek out a diverse pool of applicants, and we make strong efforts to cast a wider net by posting opportunities broadly and systematically. Moreover, we proudly collaborate with the PREDOC consortium, sharing a common mission to nurture predoctoral education among a talented and diverse population of students.

Code of conduct

LABEL condemns behaviors that perpetuate toxicity within the economics community. We side against Econ Job Market Rumors (EJMR), an anonymous online forum that provides an unrestricted platform for unfounded rumors, personal attacks, and derogatory comments about economists and academic institutions. We side with those who believe that the lack of accountability and transparency on EJMR undermines the integrity of academia and tarnishes the reputation of individuals without due process.

Research and Society

At LABEL, we firmly believe that the primary objective of research is to contribute to knowledge that fosters the advancement of society. Our commitment to conducting rigorous research drives us to identify and implement effective strategies that promote economic inclusion and cultivate a more equitable and just society for everyone. By delving into the complexities of various factors influencing life outcomes, our ultimate goal is to drive positive change and enhance the lives of individuals from diverse backgrounds.