Brendan Murtagh

Professor Brendan Murtagh holds the position of Professor of Urban Planning at Queen's University Belfast. His research focuses on contested cities, social economics, and urban regeneration, with notable works including The Politics of Territory and Understanding The Social Economy and the Third Sector. He leads interdisciplinary projects addressing urban challenges such as coastal community empowerment (EmpowerUS), green/blue space health impacts (GroundsWell), and port sustainability (SHIP).

Education: BA, MSc, PhD, FHEA.

Research interests span post-conflict urban planning, community-led initiatives, and the intersection of economic policy with spatial justice. Over 148 publications highlight his contributions to urban theory, policy analysis, and participatory development. Projects include collaborations with governments, NGOs, and community groups across Northern Ireland and beyond.

Teaching focuses on planning theory, spatial governance, and urban regeneration strategies. He actively supervises PhD students in contested cities, peacebuilding economics, and urban social policy.

Labs/Teams: Co-leads Queen’s Communities and Place (QCAP), a hub for place-based research and community engagement.