Resilient urban climates Exploring interplay between microclimate conditions and built environment to mitigate climate-related stressors Resilient urban climates This research track explores the interplay between microclimate conditions—such as extreme heat, high humidity, and flooding—and the built environment, using tools like climate modelling, sensor networks, and nature-based solutions such as green roofs and water-sensitive urban design, to mitigate climate-related stressors. It emphasises integrated approaches that combine infrastructural interventions (e.g., reflective materials or coastal barriers) and social policies (e.g., heat awareness campaigns) to protect vulnerable populations. Interdisciplinary synergy allows insights on local microclimates to inform land-use, community engagement and health strategies, ensuring that climate mitigation efforts are equitable, cost-effective, and grounded in science.
Land use and mobility Optimising travel efficiency while preserving environmental quality Land use and mobility Urban planning, zoning and transport networks can be cohesively designed to create sustainable and resilient cities. This research track assesses the spatial distribution of housing, green spaces, and transit corridors to optimise travel efficiency while preserving environmental quality. In the area of systemic urban design, the research explores data-driven land allocation methods, ensuring that residential, commercial, and recreational spaces are well-connected by public transit or active mobility options. Working towards sustainable transport innovations, researchers investigate cleaner modes of mobility—from electric buses to last-mile connectivity. By using a holistic framework that integrates economic factors (e.g., cost of land, housing affordability) and social capital (e.g., walkable communities that encourage interactions), these solutions help foster cohesive and inclusive neighbourhoods.
Urban health Enhancing population health with effective interventions Urban health This research track focuses on how climate change, urban planning, and economic disparities impact population health. Studies focus on mitigating health inequities, by examining which groups are disproportionately affected by environmental stressors and proposing targeted interventions (e.g., community centres, accessible healthcare services). By integrating insights from the climate, mobility, and social capital pillars, researchers also develop strategies to enhance city-dwellers’ holistic well-being such as reducing heat-related illnesses, improving air quality, and supporting mental health in high-density urban settings. Using data from environmental and epidemiological sources, it devises evidence-based interventions and policies, to tackle current and emerging public health challenges.
Social capital Exploring social trust, collective action and community action for urban resilience Social capital Robust community networks are critical to resilience. This research track examines how social trust, collective action, and community engagement can enhance urban adaptability. Research on community resilience identifies how informal social support systems (e.g., mutual-aid networks) can be leveraged during crises, such as heatwaves or pandemics, while research on participatory governance looks at involving residents in shaping policies—through community-driven planning or citizen science— so that solutions become transparent, equitable, and reflective of local needs. Strengthening social ties not only enhances emergency response but also contributes to better health outcomes, sustainable economic initiatives, and efficient land-use planning, creating synergy with other pillars.
Urban economics Aligning sustainable development with economic growth Urban economics This research track investigates how market mechanisms, policy incentives, and resource allocation align sustainable development with economic viability. Researchers conduct cost-benefit analysis to evaluate the financial and social returns on investments in green infrastructure, public transit and community services. By exploring innovative models like green bonds, congestion pricing, and subsidies for eco-friendly housing, this track identifies sustainability incentives to reward resilience and lower carbon footprints. The ultimate goal is to balance short-term growth with long-term resilience – in other words, support economic policies that not only attract businesses and drive innovation, but also preserve community well-being and environmental integrity.
Urban observatory Aggregating data for insights into emerging trends Urban observatory A centralised platform that integrates and analyses data from IUS research areas, the Urban Observatory serves as the backbone for evidence-based urban planning and policy. With data-driven coordination that aggregates climate, health, and demographic data, the Observatory offers real-time insights that help policymakers and researchers identify emerging trends or vulnerabilities. The platform also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration by facilitating dialogue among stakeholders—academics, policymakers, industry partners, and community groups—ensuring that urban solutions are cohesive and adaptive. Findings from the Urban Observatory are shared to inform broader national or regional planning initiatives, enabling the scaling and replication of frameworks adaptable to other high-density or climate-vulnerable cities worldwide.
