Saba Arshad

PhD

Postdoctoral Researcher

• Dr. Saba is a Development Economist with a PhD in Education Policy from the University of Bristol and over a decade of experience in designing and leading data-driven, policy-relevant research. Her work focuses on using rigorous quantitative and quasi-experimental research designs to improve outcomes across health, education, and social care systems.
• Saba specialises in policy evaluation, economic evaluation, and applied research, leveraging advanced econometric techniques, longitudinal data analysis, and statistical modelling using STATA, R, SPSS, and Python. Her broader research focus is centred on social justice and ensuring the integrated role of different departments (such as health, education, and social care) in delivering effective and equitable services. She works to improve the collaboration between these sectors to create coordinated, fair, and accessible services, addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring that disadvantaged groups have equatiable access to essential support.
• In addition to her broader research, Saba is currently working on projects related to children’s mental health and wellbeing, concentrating on early intervention and prevention strategies. These projects aim to enhance outcomes for children and young people (ages 0–25) and explore how early help can contribute to better mental health outcomes and reduce long-term disparities.
• Her work aims to inform evidence-based decision-making and system improvement, often in collaboration with local authorities, VCSEs (Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise sector), and international partners. Saba is deeply committed to using economic and policy research to drive social change, reduce inequalities, and enhance the wellbeing of underserved communities, advocating for effective investments in public services that lead to more resilient and equitable outcomes.