Barry's research examines the intersection of environmental protection and energy development in federal systems, with special interest in the role of American states and Canadian provinces in policy development and implementation. Much of his work in recent years has examined sub-federal climate policy and public opinion on climate issues, including ongoing collaboration in the development of the National Surveys on Energy and the Environment (NSEE). He has also expanded research in the past few years to consider policy issues related to state and local development of shale gas resources and serves on the 2013-14 National Research Council Committee on Risk Management and Governance Issues in Shale Gas Development.

Barry Rabe is a Collaborator in the Greening Growth Partnership project.