Interest groups research and impact on the professional practices of lobbyists — An Early Career Researcher Workshop

Abstract

This Early‑Career Researcher (ECR) panel explores how academic research shapes the professional practices of lobbyists and the wider ecosystem of interest representation. Drawing on expertise from within the ECPR Standing Group on Interest Groups, the session highlights multiple dimensions of impact, including how scholarly work informs lobbying strategies, contributes to transparency and regulatory debates, and supports professional training for practitioners. The panel brings together 2-3 speakers working at the intersection of research and practice, showcasing cases such as collaborations with lobbying professionals, advisory work on government transparency and lobbying regulation, engagement with activists and journalists, and initiatives aimed at teaching responsible lobbying. Presentations will be short and accessible, offering a broad overview of pathways to impact followed by an interactive Q&A to help ECRs identify practical strategies for developing impactful research trajectories of their own.