Research Topics

Research and academic activities aligned with every Sustainable Development Goal

Topics Header Photo
The University shall devote its work to research into the pressing global problems of human survival, development and welfare that are the concern of the United Nations and its agencies.
Charter of the United Nations University

People — topics on improving lives of people everywhere

Planet — topics on preserving and improving our environment and natural resources

Peace and partnerships — topics on fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies

Showing 121-130 of 9560 results

Event -

Launch of the 2026 Environmental Performance Index

Reflecting on 25 years of environmental benchmarking while looking ahead to the future of sustainability governance.

News 26 Jun 2026

New Research Report: AI Systems as Digital Public Goods

New UNU–ADB–UN ODET study: Openness alone isn’t enough, AI systems need to deliver public value, accountability, safeguards, and local relevance.

Feature 26 Jun 2026

Peacebuilding Week 2026

UNU-CPR Conversation Series

Degree Defense -

Article 25 Jun 2026

Open-source AI and the Choice Before Us

Open-source AI is a test of where the emerging digital economy will place its priorities.

Expert Research Fellow, Environmental Governance

Dr. Karl William Wurster

Dr. Karl Wurster is an environmental governance scholar and digital systems specialist working at the intersection of applied research and public policy implementation.  

Expert Research Fellow, Food, Nutrition and Public Health Analytics

Dr. Mahsa Jessri

Dr. Mahsa Jessri is a nutritional epidemiologist, registered dietitian, and population-health data scientist whose work applies big-data analytics, microsimulation, AI, and linked health data to nutrition policy, food systems, health equity, and the prevention of diet-related non-communicable diseases. 

Expert Executive Co-Director, UNU Hub on Empowering Communities to Adapt to Environmental Change

Dr. Kerry Black

Dr. Kerry Black is an interdisciplinary water researcher and engineer with expertise in sustainable water systems, community‑centred water sustainability, and Indigenous‑led water governance.