The purpose of this conference is to provide PhD students and junior researchers with the opportunity to take a focused view on the methodological possibilities and limitations they face while conducting research in economics. This event is organised by and for PhD students confronted with the need to critically question the methodological instruments and approaches used in their research works.

We believe that methodological issues are not given adequate attention in most PhD programmes in economics. As a consequence, the relevance and robustness of research are weakened. Developing a network of students and scholars interested in debating the relevance of research in economics is a complementary goal of this conference.

The organisation of this conference builds upon the experience of last years’ conferences in Siena (www.debating.it/siena2003) and Pavia (www.debating.it/pavia2004), and is evolving as a by-product of different groups contributions