Olimpia Mosteanu

Olimpia is an experienced mixed-methods researcher who specialises in theory-based and process evaluations, developmental evaluation and systems change. With 15 years of research experience in the third sector and academia, and a PhD in sociology, Olimpia has expert knowledge of leading and designing research projects, evaluating complex and systems interventions, advising on evidence-based policy in fast-paced environments. Their areas of expertise include urban health, the built environment and community wellbeing. Olimpia has extensive experience of engaging with policy experts as well as central and local government authorities, leading simultaneous research projects while working in collaboration with stakeholders from diverse communities and advocating for the use of participatory and creative methodologies in policy evaluations.

Before joining NatCen, Olimpia was a Programme Lead at Social Life. Examples of this work include a theory-based evaluation of the We Walworth partnership – a community-based initiative that aimed to build stronger links between central government, local government, and residents in Walworth and tackle place-based challenges. Using a case-study based approach, the theory-based evaluation used an agile and iterative approach to achieve its goals. Between 2021 and 2023, Olimpia led a theory-based evaluation that explored the impact of participation in the People’s Health Trust’s funding programmes to understand the role of the project activities in addressing the social determinants of health. Using a mixed methods approach, the evaluation identified both shorter- and longer-term changes.