Urban Lab 20

Since being established in 2005, we have been at the forefront of urban research, education and engagement, addressing complex urban issues through innovative and interdisciplinary approaches.

Throughout 2025, we will host a series of events and activities to commemorate two decades of impactful work and explore our vision for the future including:

• Lectures, seminars and workshops
• Film screenings and exhibitions
• Publications and think pieces 

Get involved

Join our mailing list and follow us on social media to receive updates on our anniversary events and initiatives.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone with our community, partners and peers, sharing experiences and insights that have shaped urban studies over the years. If you would be interested in partnering with us please contact urbanlaboratory@ucl.ac.uk.   

The history of UCL Urban Lab

UCL Urban Lab was established in 2005 by geographer Matthew Gandy, inspired by discussions with colleagues in architecture. Over the following years, it quickly extended across other fields including anthropology, engineering, film studies and sociology. Since its formation, we have showcased and promoted a wide variety of urban research at UCL, which draws on a rich heritage of pioneering ideas evidenced in the work of experimental thinkers, communicators and practitioners who have taught and studied at UCL, including Ruth Glass, Peter Hall, Derek Jarman and Otto Königsberger. The department founded the interdisciplinary Urban Studies MSc in 2008 and launched the Global Urbanism MASc in 2022.