People

We connect our researchers with policymakers to share their insight on the issues that matter. We work with academic experts from across the university to create real impact by sharing advice and expertise.

Meet the team

Our programme of work is led by a core team with experience and expertise in shaping policy, and is supported by the University of Leicester’s leading researchers across our Policy Hubs.

Professor Neil Chakraborti, Institute Director

Professor Neil Chakraborti is a globally renowned scholar within the fields of hate crime, policing and victimology. His body of work has broken new ground by generating evidence-based, impact-driven knowledge which shapes policy responses to pressing issues.  He has been commissioned by numerous funding bodies including Amnesty International, the Economic and Social Research Council (EHRC), the Equality and Human Rights Commission and the Leverhulme Trust to lead ground-breaking research studies which have transformed policy. He holds a diverse range of advisory positions including roles with the British Society of Criminology, the Crown Prosecution Service, the Human Dignity Trust, the International Network for Hate Studies, Oxford University Press and Protection Approaches.

Learn more about Professor Neil Chakraborti

Dr Jack Willoughby, Policy Manager

Dr Jack Willoughby brings significant experience to the Institute for Policy from a variety of roles in academia, politics and policy. A PhD graduate and former Graduate Teaching Assistant at the University of Exeter, Jack has also had work published by Cambridge University Press. He has worked for multiple MPs, including the Minister for Science, Research and Innovation. Jack also has experience working for the Policy Research Unit in Westminster, and previously worked at the University of Leicester in the role of Public Affairs Officer.