Urban areas and their surrounding regions face increasing pressures to transform in sustainable and resilient ways. To support this transformation, a planned Helmholtz Urban Transformation Lab combines three essential dimensions of urban transformation research: long-term observation, simulation and visualization, and participatory experiments. In preparation for a Helmholtz-wide focus on urban transformations, KIT is launching a strategic project to promote these lines of research. The project is embedded in a strong network of Helmholtz centers and collaborations at the city level.

Organizational unit

Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis (ITAS)

Job description

The project "OSGUT" aims to establish interactive formats that bridge the gap between simulation models and digital twins on the one hand, and implementable, inclusive planning and design processes on the other. You will explore, co-develop, and test digital tools for participatory scenario building, virtual experimentation and experience, and spatial planning. This includes the development and application of simulation platforms, digital twins, and experimental visualization environments in real-world settings. The following tasks await you:

• Mapping and critically assessing existing tools and digital methods for participatory/transdisciplinary design and planning
• Identifying and adapting innovative technologies for local use cases
• Coordinating and implementing at least one pilot experiment with a concrete local focus (such as the city or region of Karlsruhe) and involving digital twins and participatory platforms
• Designing and facilitating participatory interventions and co-creation processes with citizens and stakeholders facilitated by digital/virtual tools
• Linking digital approaches across Helmholtz Centers and help shaping a cross-institutional simulation infrastructure
• Supporting knowledge transfer and documentation of use cases for an upcoming research infrastructure proposal

Starting date

01.10.2025

We expect:

• a completed academic degree (Master) in urban planning, (geo-) informatics, human-computer interaction, urban data science, (digital) media design and communication, or a related field. A PhD is a plus, but not required.
• experience with or strong / proven interest in working with participatory planning or design, digital tools, or visualization environments in urban contexts, and / or in smart city and new urban science
• familiarity with or a strong track record in the use of digital tools and simulation approaches, digital twins, data visualization, or interactive data platforms is a strong asset
• interest in transdisciplinary research and co-design methodologies
• strong communication and facilitation skills, including experience working with public stakeholders is a plus