Tim Büthe

Prof. Dr. Tim Büthe’s research examines the politics of international economic relations. His work primarily focuses on (1) the role of “technical” standards in the governance of international product and financial markets, in medicine and health policy, and for consumer safety; and (2) the causes and consequences of the rapid global diffusion of competition law and policy. Other research interests include political risk analysis, focusing on foreign direct investment, and the potential and limits of private development aid. Overall, his research seeks to advance the theoretical understanding of power, stability and change in political institutions, guided by the expectation that this can ultimately yield practical insights for both public policy and the private sector, e.g. to resolve transnational conflicts and foster international cooperation.

Büthe studied primarily at Harvard University (BA 1995) and Columbia University, New York (Ph.D. 2002). Prior to joining the teaching staff at TUM in 2016 he was Associate Professor of Political Science and Public Policy (tenured) at Duke University (USA), having previously taught at Stanford University and Columbia University. He has held postdoctoral research appointments at Harvard University and the University of California, Berkeley.