Since mid-2004 I have been enrolled at the University of New England (in Armidale, NSW) doing my PhD in economics. My enrollment is long-distance and part-time and I have deferred for one year.

My topic is the link between growth theory and competition theory with a specific interest in using Austrian and dynamic competition theories to explain economic growth and including these ideas into economic models. Areas of research will include:

* Austrian and evolutionary theories of competition;
* Neoclassical theories of competition, monopoly & monopolistic competition;
* Neoclassical and Endogenous growth theory;
* Public policy regarding R&D (patents, incentives etc);
* The idea of X-efficiency;
* Links between trade liberalisation and productivity growth; and
* CGE modelling of a competition-growth relationships (eg trade liberalisation)

——————- Structure of my PhD ——————-

Part 1 — theory

Explore and explain neoclassical competition theories, growth theories and the lack of a connection. Explore and explain Austrian and other dynamic competition theories and their links to knowledge & economic growth.

Part 2 — modelling

Add a competition-growth factor to a CGE model and test which model works best. Alternatively, model without competition factor and use the model-reality difference as as estimate for the competition factor.

Part 3 — applications

Trade deals (NAFTA, CER, EU, AFTA), competition reforms (NCP), and/or unilateral liberalisation (NZ farms, Japanese beef, etc).