We study cities and infrastructure networks, both in their physical and digital forms, as complex, interconnected systems shaped by human dynamics, exogenous factors, and spatiotemporal structures. By modeling urban systems, our researchers gain a deeper understanding of the causes behind major urban challenges such as segregation, health disparities, and economic development. Meanwhile, modeling critical infrastructures, like telecommunications, shipping, and the internet, helps identify vulnerabilities and interdependencies that affect network performance. Our work supports more sustainable urban planning and the design of resilient infrastructure systems.
Our focus
Urban Intelligence
We study cities as complex systems, where the interplay between environmental factors (such as infrastructure, climate, pollution) and human dynamics (including online/offline behavior, mobility, and lifestyle) shapes diverse societal outcomes in response to challenges like food accessibility, economic segregation, natural disaster management, and public health crises. Through large-scale mobility and behavioral data analysis and modelling we advance the knowledge of urban social systems and translate our findings into actionable urban intelligence for building resilient and thriving communities.
Transportation Networks
This research examines the complex dynamics of global shipping networks through advanced network analysis and temporal modeling. The focus encompasses both dry bulk commodity networks (grain, coal, iron ore) and petroleum transport systems. Using high-resolution movement data spanning multiple years, the research investigates how random network structures emerge from underlying trade dynamics, revealing small-world phenomena and community evolution patterns. Key areas include analyzing efficiency metrics through route diversification, seasonal variations driven by climate and economic cycles, and network resilience during disruptions like COVID-19 and geopolitical conflicts, ultimately informing strategies for improving sustainability and operational efficiency.


