Some broad research topics have been proposed to facilitate the creation of groups of Fellows and to attract eminent researchers on an individual basis:

• Complexity

• The construction and diffusion of knowledge and understanding as related to public action

• Culture, heritage and creation

• Sustainable development

• Spatial dynamics and the environment

• Issues in and representations of science, technology and their use

• Religion and social issues

• Risk perception; management of crises and public policy

• Transport

• Urbanism and urban studies

 

These topics reflect both the strong academic potential of the Lyon site and pre-existing organisational initiatives.