Shaping research together and creating knowledge together – that is the aim of our new research programme.

Alternative economic models emerge in response to social crises. This Lead Project examines how mission-driven organizations, such as cooperatives, create value and how they can contribute to transitions.

The housing crisis and the climate crisis are interconnected, as are their potential solutions. That is why this Lead Project brings together previously separate fields of research and fosters dialogue among practitioners.

“Boden” (German for land, soil) has long been neglected as a category in historical research. The flagship project explores the relationship between land and space. It is collaboratively developing a glossary on the meaning and usage of the term.


News

14. August 2026 | News
Call for Papers for Special Issue in Raumforschung und Raumordnung | Spatial Research and Planning (RuR)

A Special Issue of the journal "Raumforschung und Raumordnung | Spatial Research and Planning (RuR)" aims to bring together empirical findings, theoretical perspectives and planning experiences relating to the concept of Transit-Oriented Development. Abstracts can be submitted until 30 September 2026. more info

01. April 2026 | Selected publication

Coworking spaces have arrived in rural areas. However, this phenomenon of new workspaces, originally emerged in major cities, has not simply spread geographically, but has evolved in many ways. A recently published anthology explores this development. more info

10. March 2026 | News
IRS Launches New Research Programme

With its new research programme, the IRS is systematically opening itself up to collaborative research with stakeholders outside the academic world. Transdisciplinary and participatory research are intended to help solve complex societal problems and strengthen trust in science. more info

15. December 2025 | News

Andreas Kuebart, researcher in the Research Area "Economy and Civil Society," represented the IRS at the EU's AI Policy Summit and spoke about critical capital structures for European tech companies. Because one thing is clear: Europe is strong in research, but it shows weaknesses when it comes to growth capital. more info

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