Consortium

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists to execute their leading research and inspiring teaching. Founded in 1636, Utrecht University is an esteemed international research university, consistently positioned in the top 15 in continental Europe and the worldwide top 100 of international rankings, and member of the renowned League of European Research Universities. Utrecht University's Faculty of Geosciences studies the Earth: from the Earth's core to its surface, including man's spatial and material utilization of the Earth – always with a focus on sustainability and innovation. With 3,400 students (BSc and MSc) and 720 staff members, the faculty is a strong and challenging organization. The department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning studies the processes and governance arrangements that foster resilience, economic development, health, and inclusion and equality in cities and urban regions. Their research on challenges surrounding sustainability, open societies and youth contributes to three of the four Strategic Themes of Utrecht University. Research sections work across research themes in interdisciplinary projects together with societal partners. The Spatial Planning section contributes knowledge on the governance and planning of urban futures and how they are shaped by institutional arrangements and innovative planning approaches.