We are proud to present the Inaugural Professorial Lecture of Professor Katharine Willis .
How might we live in cities in the future? Cities and technology are intrinsically linked. In fact, many large cities are defined by how they connect, and are connected, through different forms of technology. But cities are also places that sustain communities and civic society.
In her inaugural lecture, Katharine will share with us her insight into ways we might live in the future and how this might be in more localised and inclusive urban settings – connected neighbourhoods. Using an approach called digital placemaking, Katharine will discuss how technology can enable us to connect to the places that we live in and how this might develop in the future.
Professor of Smart Cities and Communities, Katharine Willis is a leading expert in how new technologies can help create inclusive environments in which people and communities can engage with the places that they live. Katharine’s research identifies the need to take a place-based approach when developing smart cities; ensuring that the design and deployment of new technologies works for setting local civic and infrastructural priorities.
Her earlier work recognises that developing smart cities can certainly be of benefit to urban communities but that providing the technical infrastructure alone is not enough. Many people, particularly in more deprived communities, remain digitally excluded, leaving them limited or unable to participate fully in society. Although technology is a solution to drive urban areas forwards, care must be taken not to exclude the very people, communities and places it is intended to help.
Join us for this special lecture to celebrate Katharine's academic accomplishments and to discover more about her pioneering research career. There will be an opportunity at the end for Katharine to answer your questions in a live Q&A.
Need-to-know
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this lecture has been delayed by 2.5 years. This hybrid-delivery event is open to the public and free to attend – booking is required.
