The ARL is a social research infrastructure facility in the Leibniz Association that enables cooperation and networking between spatial science research and planning practice. The members of our network are recognised experts and work across disciplinary boundaries on current issues of sustainable spatial development. This integrated, interdisciplinary and applied approach characterises all our activities – from the initial research question to the dissemination of the results to the appropriate target groups. For us, it is clear that the crises and complex challenges of our time can only be understood and addressed through the interplay of different disciplinary perspectives and the direct transfer of theoretical and practical knowledge that is scientifically sound and practice focused.
The added value of this approach is twofold. We facilitate the direct and circular transfer of knowledge between science and practice. At the same time, we disseminate our research findings and conclusions as appropriate for specific target groups and make them freely accessible to spatial planners and sectoral planning specialists, politicians and administrators, academics and all interested parties.
Our Academy members are selected on the basis of their professional expertise and their commitment to sustainable spatial development. In addition, many committed specialists apply to participate in our working groups and knowledge-transfer bodies on a temporary or permanent footing, responding to public Calls for Contributions or Calls for Memberships. Selection is based on knowledge foci and expertise. We also take account of diversity criteria when appointing members and contributors, striving to achieve a balance between science and practice, age groups and career levels, genders, planning levels and regional expertise.
