Fostering City Transitions - Practical Symposium

The Practical Symposium for doctoral students is associated with the Annual Conference of the Research Centre for Territory, Transports and Environment (CITTA). This year, the conference will be held in Porto, focusing on the theme "Fostering City Transitions" and the various issues it raises. The Practical Symposium addresses this theme to promote the necessary skills to advance research in the field of territorial and transport planning. These issues serve as the foundation on which the Research and Development skills promoted by the European Union are considered, focusing on promoting good research practices and the PhD as the first step in the academic world. The Practical Symposium will also offer early-career researchers an opportunity to gain insights into the challenges and opportunities in PhD research. Overall, the participants will be able to grow professionally and expand their knowledge and contact networks in a supportive academic environment.

Objectives 

Promote the development of research skills: the Practical Symposium will highlight the core research skills, allowing them to be identified as the transversal tools they are. By examining how their multiple characteristics can be expressed in different research projects (both of the students and the activities developed at the symposium), the aim is to underline their role and importance. 

Of the seven skills identified by the European Union ("Doing and Managing Research," "Managing Research Tools", "Managing Own Work", "Cognitive Skills," "Teamwork," and "Creating Impact") the Practical Symposium will offer different moments of reflection on their impact on the students' doctoral research and on planning practice.

Promote a collaborative environment: by integrating students, junior researchers, faculty, and planning professionals, the Practical Symposium will promote an environment of innovation and collaboration. This synergy aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice.  

Engage with practical applications: the Practical Symposium will include the presentation of a practical case study by planning professionals. This concrete challenge will allow participants to discuss the role of planning in solving territorial issues, strengthening the relationship between academic research and practical application.  

Activities

Location  

The event will take place in the GO Porto and Porto Ambiente municipal companies building (Rua de São Dinis 245, 4250-427 Porto). The building is renowned for its dedication to implementing sustainable solutions, having been awarded the international LEED certification for the energy, water and natural ventilation efficiency solutions applied in its refurbishment.

Organizing Committee

Ana Mélice Dias, Ana Rita Sousa, Anne Patrício, Lara Bomfim, Maria Beirão, Nathalie Andrade

For more information, please get in touch with us via the following email address: pdpt.feup@gmail.com.