About

CURT stands for Comparative Urban ecology Research Training. We started with are a diverse group of urban ecologists from the University of Melbourne, Technische Universität Berlin and Freie Universität Berlin and expanded now to experienced researchers and early-career scholars in social-ecological network analyses and urban ecology  from diverse cultural contexts (Australia, Europe, South Africa and the United States).

What are our aims? Our interdisciplinary network aims to establish a community of scholars in the field of urban ecology (terrestrial, freshwater, marine), social sciences, urban planning, and social-ecological networks. Our major aim is to understand social-ecological networks for comparative urban ecology studies across realms (terrestrial, freshwater, marine) and geographic regions to understand the cultural contexts.

Why comparative urban ecology research? In urban ecology research, the emphasis on city-specific analyses is common but limited in its applicability beyond the study area. Ecological and social dynamics can vary greatly between cities, making it crucial to explore similarites and differences through comparative studies. These comparisons help to identify broader patterns and trends in urban ecological and social systems. Comparative urban ecology research is essential for bridging the gap between localized studies and the development of strategies and solutions with broader applications, addressing complex urban ecological challenges and topics such as biodiversity conservation, (multispecies) health, and climate change mitigation.

Why social-ecological networks? For cities to effectively address the challenges posed by e.g. climate change, the biodiversity crises, or the diverse needs of different entities in urban environments, interdisciplinary studies are crucial. Social-ecological networks present a promising interdisciplinary framework for understanding the complex interplay between ecological and social systems in urban and other environments.