I think bitcoin could be quite an interesting platform for experimental economics (
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Experimental_economics) and behavioral economics . Instead of using traditional currency in experiments, researchers could use bitcoin. Having the ability to run experiments over the Internet (not having to exchange cash) would be valuable.
I don't have any contacts with people in the field but maybe one of the forum members does. It would be cool to have bitcoin mentioned in scientific research papers. Dan Ariely might be interested.