Contemporary societies are fundamentally urban, and cities are complex systems shaped by countless interactions. The IHS Urban Research Day explores how researchers study and engage with these dynamic environments, using diverse approaches to address challenges in urban development, energy, social inequalities and innovative knowledge creation.
- Date
- Tuesday 14 Oct 2025, 09:00 - 14:00
- Type
- Conference
- Spoken Language
- English
- Room
- 14th floor
- Building
- Mandeville Building
- Location
- Campus Woudestein
More about the event
The first IHS Urban Research Day showcases the transdisciplinarity of urban research, from theory to practice. The event highlights studies that address global challenges while remaining attentive to local realities, spanning topics such as housing, social justice, climate and energy, urban innovation, and knowledge exchange. Participants will engage with research that is inclusive, participatory, and oriented toward real-world impact.
Note: This is an invite-only event.
Programme
Start the day with registration and a morning coffee to meet fellow participants.
Official opening of the IHS Urban Research Day with a brief introduction to the day’s programme and themes.
- Pathways of Urban Development & Change
Explore how cities evolve under social, economic, and ethical influences, including transport, real estate, and community dynamics. - Building the Urban Environment
Focus on sustainable and socially just urban planning, addressing environmental and social challenges in contemporary cities.
Take a short break, enjoy refreshments, and connect with other participants.
- Energy & Decarbonisation
Examine strategies for sustainable energy transitions and the social dimensions of urban energy use. - Social Inequalities & Informality
Discuss approaches to urban planning that address structural inequalities and informal governance arrangements. - Alternative & Innovative Knowledge Creation & Sharing
Investigate collaborative learning, city-to-city knowledge exchange, and innovative methods for urban research.
Refresh and prepare for the afternoon panel discussion.
Beyond the Academy: Rethinking Communication & Dissemination in Urban Research
Panellists:
- Elena Marie Ensenado, Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies
- Dr. Ingmar van Meerkerk, Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Studies
- Adinda Ceelen, International Institute for Social Studies
This panel explores how urban research can extend its reach and relevance beyond academic circles. In an era of urgent and complex urban challenges, effectively communicating research to policymakers, civil society, communities, and the wider public is key to creating impact.
Panellists will discuss emerging strategies, dilemmas, and innovations in disseminating urban research, addressing how academic norms, institutional constraints, and power dynamics shape knowledge sharing. The discussion will examine differences and overlaps between communication inside and outside academia, and explore practical ways for scholars, practitioners, and engaged actors to translate research into meaningful action through participatory formats, storytelling, digital media, or collaborative policy work. The session includes opportunities for questions and dialogue with the audience.
Enjoy a light lunch while networking and continuing conversations from the day’s sessions.
