IOER at a glance

The Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER) is a non-university research centre and a member of the Leibniz Association. We contribute to a spatial development that enables humanity to thrive within ecological boundaries while ensuring planetary justice. Given the severity of the present global social-ecological crisis, our research aims to accelerate and achieve deep and encompassing transformations that shape sustainable and resilient regions, cities and neighbourhoods.

As a leading centre for advanced spatial sustainability science we develop cross-scale spatial information, analysis tools and knowledge, as well as policy- and planning instruments that enhance adaptive and transformative capacities in territories and places. To that effect we strive to elucidate the internal and external sustainability orientations of individuals, organisations and society, as well as their embeddedness in socio-ecological-technological spatial configurations. Our research and transfer activities draw on integrated mono-, inter- and transdisciplinary approaches, and are reflexive of our role as scientists in spatial development.

Our organizational design promotes scientific cooperation, knowledge integration and innovation. We highly value an inspiring, motivating and collaborative work environment, and an organisational culture characterised by openness, trust, appreciation, creativity and learning. We promote gender equality and appreciate the diversity of our team. We offer qualification opportunities and promote young scientists. Our work aligns with the principles of strong sustainability, responsible research and innovation and good scientific practice.

Further principles of our work, organisation, management and interaction are formulated in our mission statement.