Ben Barr is Professor in Applied Public Health at Liverpool University and joint-Chief Investigator for PHIRST LiLaC. His research focuses on using natural experiments to evaluate the health inequalities impact of local and national social, welfare, economic and health policies. He has a particular interest in research that enables local government to promote health equity by addressing the social determinants of health. He previously worked in roles in applied public health in the UK for the NHS and Health Protection Agency before taking up an academic post.