Motu Affiliate & ex-Research Analyst Livvy Mitchell graduates with PhD in Economics

Jan 13, 2026

Our Affiliate & ex-Research Analyst Livvy Mitchell recently graduated with a PhD in Economics from Auckland University of Technology.

One of Motu Research's main objectives is building capability in young researchers (& government employees) in economic and public policy research.  It’s a joy to see the great things Livvy is achieving, and our support and training contributed.

Livvy is an applied micro-econometrician examining health, labour and crime-related issues, focusing on the social and economic impacts of youth adversity.

In her PhD, Livvy used applied econometric techniques to show the causal effects of youth suicide and youth victimisation on the health and economic outcomes of affected family members in Aotearoa NZ.

Livvy was a Research Analyst at Motu Research in 2020-2021. Then, throughout her PhD she provided massive support to us, being based in our Wellington office in a mentoring role. Livvy supports our Research Analysts in discussing research, coding sessions and helping them prepare for academic presentations. We are lucky to still have Livvy with us in this role.

We know being part of the Motu whānau camaraderie has meant a lot to her - given she was studying remotely and could have otherwise been a little lonely. 

Livvy is also currently a Researcher at the Rockwool Fonden Research Unit (based in Copenhagen).

Mahi tika ana/well done Livvy!