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.
People — topics on improving lives of people everywhere
Planet — topics on preserving and improving our environment and natural resources
Prosperity — topics on building a sustainable and fulfilling future
Peace and partnerships — topics on fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies
Affiliate
Dr. Timothy Clack
Dr. Timothy Clack is an archaeologist and anthropologist whose research examines culture and conflict, heritage and identity, and the ways in which the past is used to shape contemporary social and political narratives.
Expert
Hiwot Ergetie Temechew
Hiwot is a Doctoral Researcher at UNU Resource Nexus, jointly affiliated with TU Dresden and the Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER) under the NEXtra Scholarship Programme. Her research focuses on optimizing the land, space, and materials nexus in gray and green urban infrastructure in the Global South.
News
Mongolian President Witnesses Signing of MoU Between UNU Resource Nexus and GMIT
Partnership to advance sustainable resource management, research, education and policy impact
Expert
Jawad Hussain
Jawad Hussain is a Doctoral Researcher at UNU Resource Nexus, jointly affiliated with TU Dresden and the Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER) under the NEXtra Scholarship Programme. His research focuses on optimizing the land, space, and materials nexus in gray and green urban infrastructure in the Global South.
Expert
Thomas Hale
Mr. Thomas Hale is a political geologist whose research explores how subsurface natural forces shape and challenge geopolitical interests on the surface, particularly in Greenland and the broader Arctic region.
News
Event Calls for Inclusive Incentives to Support Biodiversity and Local Communities
A UNU-IAS side event at CBD COP17 discussed how subsidies and incentives could be reformed to support nature and livelihoods.
News
UNU Hosts Delegation from Hamburg University of Technology
The meeting explored ways to enhance the successful partnership between UNU and TUHH and to promote science-led solutions for sustainable development.
News
Announcing a new collaboration between United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health and PLOS Water
A new PLOS Water collection addresses science, governance, and solutions for a resilient future amid Global Water Bankruptcy.
Article
Can COP31 Accelerate Climate Action?
UNU-IAS expert Naoyuki Okano discusses how the 2026 UN Climate Change Conference can strengthen global momentum for climate action despite pushbacks.