Paolo Zeppini is interested in all phenomena of `emergence' in complex economic systems, where non-linearities and structure characterise the aggregation of individual action into population behaviour.

With the lesn of coplexity, Paolo studies the interplay between human behaviour and ecological systems, the economics and policy analysis of sustainable transitions, and the evolutionary dynamics of financial markets.

He develops simple tractable models of human behaviour with heterogeneous agents, social interactions and multiple equilibria, using a multidisciplinary approach that builds on game theory, network theory, statistical mechanics and evolutionary thinking.

The main themes in this context are the emergence of cooperation in economic - ecological systems, the sudden transitions that characterize collective behaviour, and ultimately the question whether the endogenous emergence of cooperation is a viable alternative to binding political agreements in the quest for a solution to our pressing global environmental problems.