Mor Shilon

I am an Assistant Project Scientist, Lecturer, and Director of the UP-Hub at the Department of Urban Studies and Planning, UC San Diego. My research lies at the intersection of sociology and urban planning, focusing on social and environmental (in)justice from an international perspective.

I draw on relational theories to provide a nuanced understanding of socio-spatial conditions in today’s cities as experienced by city users and their implications on urban futures. My research delves into the affective experiences of diverse urban communities regarding environmental hazards, land use plans, and urban power dynamics. I argue that relational approaches are crucial for tackling contemporary urban challenges, such as growing diversity and increasing use of technology in cities, while also preparing for future uncertainties in both research and practice.

Additionally, I focus on Community Engaged Learning (CEL) in urban planning. Working with historically excluded communities in various locations around the world, I examine the potential of different forms of CEL to support university-community partnerships and promote the growth and independence of underserved communities through a reciprocal process. I explore CEL planning pedagogies to develop comprehensive tools that researchers and practitioners can utilize when working with underserved communities in varying urban settings.

I have published papers in leading peer-reviewed journal including Planning Theory, Planning Theory and Practice, Cities, Regional Studies, International Journal of Qualitative Methods, and Environmental Politics.

• B.A., Sociology and Anthropology, Tel Aviv University
• M.A., Sociology and Anthropology, Tel Aviv University
• Ph.D, Urban Planning, Technion

• Planning Theories
• Affect Technology and Innovation
• Environmental Planning
• Community Engagement