Joerin Florent

Joerin Florent is a Professor at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland (HES-SO) and Director of the INSIT Institute for Territorial Engineering at HEIG-VD. He also serves as an associate member of the Research Centre for Planning and Development at Laval University in Quebec. Previously, he held the Canada Research Chair in Territorial Decision Support for nearly a decade (2003-2012).

His research expertise spans urban planning, participatory planning processes, climate change adaptation, and territorial decision support systems. Professor Florent has developed numerous methodologies for integrating spatial information into decision-making processes, with a particular focus on multicriteria analysis and public participation frameworks. His work addresses critical challenges in sustainable territorial development, including wind farm governance, groundwater protection, and climate-resilient urban planning.

Professor Florent's publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on practical applications of planning theory. His recent work examines the slow adoption of climate change considerations in Swiss urban planning, the effectiveness of digital versus traditional participatory methods, and the development of decision support tools for complex territorial challenges. His research consistently bridges academic theory and practical planning applications.

• Canada Research Chair in Territorial Decision Support (2003-2012)

As Director of INSIT, Professor Florent leads a research institute focused on territorial engineering challenges. His work involves extensive collaboration with municipal authorities, cantonal agencies, and international partners to develop practical solutions for sustainable territorial development. He has supervised numerous research projects funded by Swiss government agencies, the European Union, and research councils, demonstrating his ability to secure competitive research funding and translate findings into practical planning applications.