The Concept
The Social Catalyst Lab is a research concept, where we search for scalable solutions to pressing problems in society. By leveraging Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and rapid Randomized Control Trials (RCTs), we aim to discover previously unknown, high-impact, solutions. Testing and evaluation is done at scale, rapidly and iteratively. The concept was developed by economists David Yanagizawa-Drott and Kobbina Awuah together with a team from University of Zurich and Harvard University. We see it as a potentially groundbreaking way of leveraging AI to generate new scientific evidence for the benefit of society. It is currently being deployed and tested in Ghana.
Big Data
We leverage very large datasets, conducive for the testing of many potential solutions to societal challenges.
Artificial Intelligence
We employ state-of-the-art artificial intelligence architectures, in order to expand the scope for discovery.
Rapid Experimentation
To identify causal impacts and discover high social returns interventions, we employ the scientific gold standard of randomized control trials. Experimentation is rapid and iterative.
Our services
Who we are
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David Yanagizawa-Drott
ButtonProfessor at Department of Economics at University of Zurich
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Kobbina Awuah
ButtonEntrepreneur and PhD Candidate in Economics at University of Zurich
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Ursa Krenk
ButtonPhD Candidate in Economics at University of Zurich
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Aakaash Rao
ButtonPhD Candidate in Economics at Harvard University
