Denvil is an economist whose primary research focuses on the causes and consequences of tax evasion. His research in this area has explored the impact of tax evasion opportunities on income inequality, labor supply, risk taking behavior and tax incidence. He has also written on the subjects of shadow economic activity, tax morale, and tax competition. His research in this area has been published in top journals such as the European Economic Review, the National Tax Journal and International Tax and Public Finance.

Another branch of Denvil’s research explores the political acceptability of using road mileage user-fees to finance road construction, repair and maintenance. Denvil and a team of researchers at Indiana University fielded a survey that has provided tremendous information on the level and intensity of support for road mileage user-fees in the United States. Data from the survey has also been used to identify design features that affect the acceptability of mileage user-fees. The body of academic papers written with the survey data speaks directly to the current discussion taking place across the U.S. In fact, Denvil recently testified before a joint committee in the Indiana State Legislature that is currently exploring alternative financing options for road construction, repair and maintenance. His research in this area has been published in top journals such as the Public Administration Review and Public Budgeting and Finance.

He joined IZA as a Research Fellow in January 2012.