Panel discussion: challenges for early career researchers conducting planning and real estate research

UGoveRN’s Connect21 project recently held its first early career seminar, which included a panel discussion featuring the academic mentors of the session. The mentors who participated in the panel discussion were Tuna Tasan-Kok, Professor of Urban Governance and Planning at the University; Prof. Michael Ball, Professor of Urban and Property Economics at the University of Reading; and Martijn Droes, Assistant Professor of Real Estate Finance at the University of Amsterdam.

Due to a large number of applicants for the in-depth mentoring session, the organizers decided to hold an additional panel discussion with the mentors, which was open to all applicants. During the panel discussion, the academic mentors shared their insights on some of the recurring challenges that early career scholars face when combining critical planning and real estate insights.

The panel discussed a wide range of challenges, including methodological issues related to combining insights from different disciplines, publishing strategies for early career scholars, and the difficulties of collaborating with practitioners. These challenges are particularly relevant for early career scholars who are trying to establish themselves in their respective fields and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their areas of interest.

For those who were unable to attend the panel discussion, the recording of the session is available on UGoveRN’s Youtube channel. By watching the recording, early career scholars and other interested individuals can gain valuable insights from the academic mentors who participated in the discussion.

At the end of the session, representatives of the AESOP YA Network (Association of European Schools of Planning Young Academics Network), the ERES PhD Network (PhD network of the European Real Estate Society), and FLAfRES (Future Leaders of the African Real Estate Society) will introduce their networks, followed by a joint online networking event.

In conclusion, the panel discussion with UGoveRN’s academic mentors was an insightful and informative session that provided valuable advice and guidance to early career scholars who are navigating the challenges of combining critical planning and real estate insights.