Alexandru Balasescu

Alexandru Balasescu is an Adjunct Professor in the Urban Studies Program, specializing in participative urbanism, smart cities, and urban ecosystems. His research explores interdisciplinary approaches to urban design, human-machine interaction, and cultural dimensions of urban spaces. He holds a LEED AP certification and co-founded the Moving Matters Traveling Workshop.

He has held administrative roles in urban regeneration projects in Bucharest and Istanbul, and taught at institutions like The American University of Paris and Galatasaray University. His work is supported by organizations such as the Wenner Gren Foundation and the Open Society Institute.

Dr. Balasescu’s publications include the monograph Paris Chic, Tehran Thrills (2007) and co-editing a special issue on urban sustainability in Journal of Development. His research bridges anthropology, urban studies, and material culture, emphasizing cross-cultural and political dimensions of urban life.