Harry Smith

Harry Smith is a Professor at the School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, Heriot-Watt University, and a member of The Urban Institute. He holds a PhD in Planning and Housing from Edinburgh College of Art/Heriot-Watt University (2000) and an MSc in Urban & Regional Planning (1996). His research focuses on urbanization, housing policy, community empowerment, and place-making, with a regional emphasis on Latin America and global South contexts. He has led the Centre for Environment & Human Settlements since 2010 and contributed to initiatives such as the Network-Association of European Researchers on Urbanisation in the South (N-AERUS).

Smith’s work addresses global challenges like climate resilience, equitable urban development, and aging populations. He co-authored the 'Principal's Research Impact and Engagement Award 2021 Community' for environmental risk co-management policies. His recent research examines smart cities, urban green spaces’ mental health impacts, and flood risk mitigation in Mexico and Colombia.

• Education:
  • PhD in Planning and Housing (2000), Edinburgh College of Art/Heriot-Watt University
  • MSc Urban & Regional Planning (1996), Edinburgh College of Art/Heriot-Watt University
  • Architecture Degree (1990), Universidad Politecnica de Valencia
• Key Roles:
  • Director, Centre for Environment & Human Settlements (2010–present)
  • Senior Lecturer, School of the Built Environment (2010)
  • Co-coordinator, N-AERUS (2006–2010)
• Research Themes:
  • Urban planning and housing in rapidly urbanizing regions
  • Participatory processes and community-led development
  • Climate resilience and disaster risk reduction
  • Age-friendly urban design and aging populations
• Award: Principal's Research Impact and Engagement Award 2021 Community (2021)

His 113+ publications span topics like waterfront redevelopment, smart cities, and mental health in university campuses. Recent work emphasizes co-management strategies for environmental risks and equitable urban policies. He collaborates internationally, with projects in Colombia, Brazil, Mexico, and Senegal.