Nicola Pasini's research interests are focused on:
- transformation of relationship between politicians and civil servants in Italy and in Western Europe (spoils and merit system);
- analysis of public administration and local government;
- ethical frontiers in public and private management with an interdisciplinary approach;
- rethinking the welfare state and citizenship (i.e. health policy and immigration) in the liberal and democratic societies;
- transformation of parties and party systems in Italy and in Western Europe.