Laura Péaud

Laura Péaud is a researcher at the EVS Laboratory (Lyon) affiliated with the University of Lyon's Department of Geography. She holds a PhD in geography from Lyon (2014), focusing on the transition from Enlightenment-era scientific projects to national geographies in France, Prussia, and Great Britain (1780–1860). Her work examines the interplay between geographical knowledge production, political spheres, and urban scientific memory in European metropolises like Paris, London, and Berlin.

Her research interests include spatialities of geographical knowledge, colonial discourse construction, and the role of scientific heritage in metropolization processes. Recent studies explore Alexander von Humboldt's influence on political decision-making and the socio-scientific narratives shaping urban identities.

Péaud has presented at major events including the International Festival of Geography (Saint-Dié-des-Vosges) and the International Conference of Historical Geographers (London). Her work bridges historical geography, science studies, and urban sociology, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding the institutionalization of geographical disciplines in 19th-century Europe.