The Pittsburgh Experimental Economics Laboratory (PEEL) is an internationally recognized center for experimental research focused on understanding human decision-making in various economic settings. Using controlled methods, PEEL explores how individuals make choices, interact within organizations and markets, and influence broader economic, political, and social outcomes. The lab brings together faculty and students from diverse fields, including economics, business, decision sciences, education, neuroscience, political science, and public policy.

Join a PEEL research study and get paid!

The History of PEEL

The Pittsburgh Experimental Economics Laboratory (PEEL) was founded by John Kagel and Alvin Roth, a Nobel Laureate in Economics. Since its inception, PEEL has served as a hub for pioneering research in experimental economics. Notably, the lab contributed to foundational work on market design, which played a significant role in Roth’s Nobel Prize-winning contributions. Over the decades, PEEL has maintained its reputation as a center of excellence, attracting top scholars and fostering innovation in economic research.

Research at PEEL

PEEL provides a controlled environment for studying human behavior using real incentives. The lab is equipped with 40 networked PCs and supports both individual and group decision-making studies. Research conducted at PEEL has been published in leading economics and political science journals, offering influential insights on topics such as:

Beyond the lab, PEEL’s methodologies are applied globally through field experiments and mobile or online platforms, extending the impact of lab-based insights to real-world settings. PEEL also plays a vital role in graduate training for Economics PhD students at the University of Pittsburgh. Students gain hands-on experience running experiments, developing original research, and engaging with leading scholars through seminars and weekly lab meetings that promote collaboration and mentorship.

PEEL & The Cohen Fellows

The Harvey S. Cohen Fellowship is aimed at undergraduate economics majors at the University of Pittsburgh who are interested in behavioral and experimental economics. Cohen Fellows receive paid research positions in PEEL, learn and assist with experiments in PEEL, work closely with PEEL faculty and graduate students, and collaborate on opportunities in BEDI. This fellowship is made possible by the generosity of Harvey S. Cohen, who earned his BA in Economics from the University of Pittsburgh and has established a distinguished career as an accountant.

BEDI - Behavioral Economics Design InitiativeUniversity of Pittsburgh4700 Wesley W. Posvar Hall230 South Bouquet StreetPittsburgh, PA 15260bedi@pitt.edu