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 1-10 of 9095 results

UNU Council Member UNU Council Member; Raffles Professor of Social Sciences, National University of Singapore

Prof. Brenda Yeoh

Professor Brenda S.A. Yeoh is a Singaporean scholar and expert in the fields of migration, social geography, and the politics of space in colonial and post-colonial cities.

Expert Junior Research Fellow

Bavo Stevens

Bavo Stevens was a Junior Research Fellow at the UNU Institute on Globalization, Culture and Mobility (UNU-GCM).

News 12 Jun 2026

Roundtable Discussion: How to Bridge the Gap between Policymakers and Academics in Africa and the Global South

Emmanuel Balogun and Thomas Tieku are holding a virtual roundtable hosted by the International Studies Association.

Expert Research Fellow, Geospatial Analytics for Water and Agriculture

Dr. Varun Tiwari

Dr. Varun Tiwari is a geospatial AI expert and Data Scientist specializing in the application of AI, remote sensing, and high-performance computing to advance climate resilience, agriculture, water management, and sustainable development. 

Series 20 May 2026

Circular Textiles

This focus area promotes circular approaches that redefine textiles from waste to resource, lowering environmental impacts throughout their life cycle

Series 20 May 2026

Responsible Electronics

This focus area promotes sustainability across the entire electronics value chain, from design to end of life management.

Series 20 May 2026

Transformed Landscapes

This focus area examines how landscape transformations can be managed sustainably by integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations.

Series 20 May 2026

Sustainable Buildings and Constructions

This focus area explores how buildings can become more resource-efficient, resilient, and sustainable across their entire life cycle.

Series 20 May 2026

Resilient Food, Forest and Ecosystems

Food systems, forests, and ecosystems face rising pressure from climate change and demand. This focus area promotes sustainable resource management.

Blog Post 20 May 2026

Implementing the ICJ Climate Opinion: A Generational Hope

The ICJ’s landmark climate opinion affirms climate action as a legal duty, not a political choice. The UNGA decides today.