Robert J. Chaskin

Robert J. Chaskin is the McCormick Foundation Professor at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice and holds the UNESCO Chair in Inclusive Urbanism. As Faculty Director of the Kiphart Center for Global Health and Social Development, he leads international collaborations with institutions like Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Peking University. His work focuses on urban poverty, community capacity building, and mixed-income housing policies.

Academic Background:

• A.M. in Anthropology, University of Chicago
• Ph.D. in Sociology, University of Chicago

Professor Chaskin's research examines social policy and community practice through grounded studies of urban interventions and cross-national analyses. His work spans three major lines: theories of community and poverty response, neighborhood governance, and knowledge application in community practice. Current projects include studies on slum clearance in Mumbai and urbanization in China.

Research Trends: Recent articles highlight urban youth engagement, social exclusion dynamics, and housing policy impacts. Keywords include urban studies, social work, and cross-national analysis, with sub-fields like participatory planning, youth civic engagement, and globalized urban challenges.

Scientific Awards:

• Inducted into the American Academy of Social Work and Social Welfare (2020)
• Honorable Mention for Best Book in Urban Affairs Award (2015)

His advising role includes mentoring students and faculty in the Crown Family School's program and international collaborations. Grants include Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowships for youth engagement research and institutional support for China-focused urban studies.