A key objective of the TWIN2EXPAND project is to enhance research capacities in evidence-based urban design and planning (EBDP) at the University of Cyprus. Working towards this, Capacity-Building in Research and Management activities are underway to strengthen research capabilities of UCY and enhance the institution’s visibility by upskilling its staff, supporting networking, and reinforcing its capacity to secure funding.
In October 2023, the TWIN2EXPAND project marked a significant milestone with its first research management training at Politecnico di Torino. Held over three days, the historic Castello del Valentino and the headquarters of the Future Urban Legacy Lab (FULL) provided the setting for an event dedicated to evaluating and addressing gaps in managerial and administrative support skills.
Activities during the training encompassed presentations of past and ongoing research endeavors, networking opportunities, open science sessions, and grant writing exercises.
The first day of training featured insightful presentations and networking opportunities that set the tone for the entire training. Presentations highlighted the work of the Future Urban Legacy Lab and its ongoing projects. The second day included engaging sessions, featuring presentations by Torino Urban Lab, Homes4All Srl, and Fondazione di Comunità Porta Palazzo. The day concluded with a tour of Torino, providing a rich immersion into the city’s history and urban form. Day three included stimulating discussions on research project writing and impact, offering insights into open science and grant writing.
The inaugural research management training at Politecnico di Torino proved to be a success, fostering collaboration, networking, and knowledge-sharing. We are grateful for the opportunity to delve into thought-provoking subjects that drive evidence-based design, innovation, and open science, making significant strides in capacity building within TWIN2EXPAND and the realms of urban planning.
