EMEF Laboratory
Knowledge, Research, Innovation, Education, Application
Emerging Methodologies in Economics and Finance Lab
Department of Economics, Democritus University of Thrace
The EMEF Lab at Democritus University of Thrace focuses on cutting-edge research at the intersection of economics, finance, and advanced empirical and analytical techniques.
Our lab promotes collaboration among academics, researchers, PhD candidates, businesses, professionals, research institutions, and universities—both domestic and international—to address modern economic challenges through innovative methodologies.
Vision
EMEF aims to be an international center of innovation and excellence in research in Economics and Finance, developing and applying pioneering, state-of-the-art interdisciplinary methodologies that combine theoretical knowledge with practical solutions and applications. It offers advanced scientific insight and added value to science, businesses, organizations, and society as a whole.
Mission Statement
To produce, disseminate, and apply high-quality scientific knowledge and innovations in the field of economics and finance. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, advanced quantitative methods, and data analysis, the lab seeks to address real-world problems, promote academic research, and contribute to economic development and modernization of organizations, businesses, and society. EMEF also supports and educates students, researchers, and professionals, enhancing advanced knowledge, innovation, and skills to tackle current and future challenges.
Research
EMEF develops, improves, and utilizes cutting-edge empirical tools such as:
· Machine Learning
· Artificial Intelligence
· Complex Network Analysis
· FinTech
· Big Data
· Advanced econometric and statistical techniques
These tools enhance understanding and forecasting in economics and finance, with a strong emphasis on applying generated knowledge to real-world problems.
Key Research Areas:
Artificial Intelligence – Machine Learning. Development, adaptation, application, and use of modern algorithms for analysis and prediction using:
Classification and Regression Algorithms.
Deep Learning Architectures.
Explainable AI (XAI) methodologies for human-centric AI
Complex Networks. Development of new algorithms for network analysis and forecasting, such as:
Threshold – Minimum Dominating Set (T-MDS).
Weighted – Minimum Dominating Set (W-MDS).
Multivariate Networks.
Econometrics and Statistics. Advanced methods combining new computational techniques and hybrid tools that integrate Machine Learning and AI with econometric and statistical methods.
Team and Leadership:
Director: Professor Periklis Gogas (Economics).
Deputy Director: Theofilos Papadimitriou (Mathematics).
The lab includes a team of international academics, researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and PhD candidates.
Funding
Our research is supported by:
· National and EU programs.
· National scholarships from the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (ELIDEK) and the State Scholarships Foundation (IKY).
· Private funding from industry, businesses, partner universities, institutions, etc.
Achievements
Our research contributions are internationally recognized and include:
· Over 100 publications in reputable international scientific journals.
· Participation in international conferences.
· Collaboration with international scientific teams.
· Partnerships with global universities, institutions, and private companies.
· EMEF is the only economics lab in Greece with voting membership in CAIRNE (Confederation of Laboratories for Artificial Intelligence Research in Europe).
Invited Research Presentations at:
European Central Bank
Bank of Greece
Ross School of Business, University of Michigan
Department of Economics, Temple University
ISEG Lisbon School of Economics & Management
Rennes School of Business
Neapolis University of Pafos
University of Strasbourg
Midwest Institute, USA
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
University of Crete
National Documentation Centre
Current Collaborations – MOUs
AI B Value – Λύσεις Τεχνητής Νοημοσύνης για Επιχειρήσεις.
EVOTROPIA – Αρχιτεκτονικές Οικολογικής Χρηματοοικονομικής.
Rennes School of Business, Γαλλία.
Research and Publications
We welcome collaborations and inquiries from other labs, private companies, students, and researchers interested in exploring innovative economic methodologies.
