The Willis Research Network (WRN) is one of the world’s longest running and most influential partnerships between academia and the insurance industry, building a global reputation for helping clients and colleagues better understand and manage the world’s most complex risks.
Understanding of risk
Understanding risk and driving resilience are still best met working in partnerships and embracing the talents of people across the globe. As the risk landscape continues to evolve, no single institution has the resources or breadth of knowledge to single-handedly answer all of the questions around the quantification and management of risk.
Global partners, local expertise
With more than 50 partner institutions worldwide including leading universities, think tanks, national labs, and specialized research centers, the WRN connects cutting-edge science with commercial decision-making. Its work spans climate risk, cyber, supply chain fragility, systemic shocks, and more recently, the rapidly evolving landscape of AI governance and liability.
Transmission mechanism
What sets the WRN apart is its focus on real-world impact. This isn’t academic research that sits on a shelf. WRN insights shape how WTW advises clients, develops analytics, and creates new market solutions - from catastrophe modelling enhancements and climate stress testing to scenario planning and regulatory guidance.
Innovative, award winning partnerships
Over the years, the WRN has received multiple industry awards for innovation and scientific collaboration and continues to serve as a benchmark for how insurers and reinsurers can work with research institutions to anticipate emerging threats and improve resilience.
In a risk environment defined by change, uncertainty, and interconnection, the WRN’s mission is more relevant than ever: to ensure the industry is not just reacting to risk but understanding it before it arrives to help Willis craft innovative solutions for our clients.
