Lessons from OTT’s 2026 School: A hybrid think tank model

LPI's Sasha Johnson writes for On Think Tanks: A global consultancy and platform for change

Leeds Policy Institute's Head of Research Sasha Johnson has written about his experience at OTT's School for Think Tankers conference in Barcelona where he proposed his ideas on a new Hybrid Think Tank Model for LPI. Sasha wrote:

"I was particularly influenced by the discussions on communication in complex policy environments. It became clear that while we often pour our hearts and souls into the research process, the dissemination of that research is equally vital. We must aim for a 50:50 ratio between production and promotion to ensure our output reaches the desired audience."

"In the coming years, my hope is that our model serves as a blueprint. I want to inspire other student-led organisations – whether they are think tanks, advocacy groups or academic societies – to bridge the gap between graduation and professional impact by building professional entities alongside their student bodies." 

You can read Sasha's full article here.

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The LPI committee remains committed towards engaging students with its Hybrid Think Tank model. We are currently holding talks with the Leeds Student Union to finalise details before approaching our student body with a proposal.