Call for Expressions of Interest: Visiting Scholar in Urban Studies

The CRIT Research Group (Creativity, Innovation and Urban Transformation) is inviting applications for a two-month Visiting Scholar position in Urban Studies at the University of Barcelona. This call for expressions of interest is directed at early-career postdoctoral researchers who are seeking an opportunity to advance their academic work, engage in collaborative dialogue, and explore new avenues for joint research and publication.

About CRIT

The CRIT Research Group is based at the University of Barcelona and focuses on the intersections of creativity, innovation, and urban transformation. Its mission is to generate knowledge that informs both academic debates and practical solutions for the challenges facing contemporary cities. By hosting visiting scholars, CRIT strengthens its international collaborations and provides a platform for emerging researchers to contribute to ongoing projects while advancing their own academic trajectories.

Purpose of the Visiting Scholar Program

The Visiting Scholar initiative has been designed to provide a supportive environment for emerging researchers in the field of urban studies. The program offers the chance to:

• Develop independent research projects while benefiting from the intellectual environment of CRIT.
• Participate in group activities organized by CRIT, including seminars, workshops, and collaborative discussions.
• Explore opportunities for collaboration with CRIT members, particularly in relation to joint publications and project proposals.

The program offers :

• €1,350 per month to support living and accommodation expenses in Barcelona.
• Integration into an interdisciplinary group working on urban governance, housing, urban regeneration, economic development, commons, social and environmental justice.
•  Opportunities to develop joint publications and explore future project proposals (e.g. Marie Skłodowska-Curie, Beatriu de Pinós).

Application Guidelines

Interested candidates should submit their expression of interest via email to:

Dr. Iolanda Bianchi Ramón y Cajal Research Fellow Department of Sociology, University of Barcelona CRIT – Creativity, Innovation and Urban Transformation.

Email: iolanda.bianchi@ub.edu

Applications must include the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed account of academic achievements, research experience, and publications.
• Motivation Letter: A clear statement of research interests, proposed activities during the visit, and potential areas of collaboration with CRIT.

The deadline for submission is 5 December 2025.

Selection Process

Applications will be assessed according to three main criteria:

• Quality and relevance of proposed activities: The alignment of the applicant’s research with CRIT’s focus on creativity, innovation, and urban transformation.
• Academic excellence: Evidence of strong scholarly achievements and potential contributions to the field of urban studies.
• Collaboration potential: The applicant’s ability to engage meaningfully with CRIT members and contribute to joint initiatives.

Results of the selection process will be communicated shortly after the application deadline.

Key Dates

• Announcement Published: 17 November 2025
• Application Deadline: 5 December 2025
• Duration of Visit: Two months (specific dates to be determined in consultation with the selected scholar)
• Notification of Results: Shortly after the deadline

Conclusion

This call for expressions of interest represents a unique opportunity for early-career postdoctoral researchers in urban studies. The Visiting Scholar program offers not only the chance to refine individual research projects but also to engage in collaborative initiatives that may lead to impactful publications and future research proposals.

By joining CRIT, scholars will become part of a dynamic research community dedicated to exploring creativity, innovation, and urban transformation. Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their applications carefully and submit them by the deadline of 5 December 2025.

More information Here