Mosè Cometta

Mosè Cometta is a postdoctoral researcher and scientific coordinator at the Institute of Urban and Landscape Studies (ISUP), part of the Academy of Architecture at the Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) in Mendrisio, Switzerland. His academic journey includes a PhD from the Université de Lausanne, a visiting research position at the University of Turin, and prior teaching roles at the University of Barcelona.

• PhD (SNF Doc.CH Grant), Université de Lausanne, 2016–2019
• Licenza in Filosofia, Pontificia Università Gregoriana, 2012–2014
• Llicenciatura in Philosophy, Universitat de Barcelona, 2008–2012
• Máster universitario Online de Mediterráneo Antiguo, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, 2023–present

Cometta's research centers on territorial governance, spatial justice, and the dynamics of planetary urbanisation, with a particular focus on marginal urbanities and the socio-political conflicts surrounding protected areas in alpine regions. Drawing from critical theory, political philosophy, and discourse analysis, he investigates how institutional narratives shape the urbanisation of wilderness and the invisibilisation of Alpine communities. His work bridges urban studies, environmental ethics, and digital social theory, exploring themes such as digital capitalism, public debate pathologies, and the right to the city in rural contexts.

His recent publications reveal a strong trajectory in analyzing the intersection of urban development, identity politics, and environmental governance in Ticino and beyond. He frequently publishes on discourse analysis of national park opposition, overtourism, and the transformation of rural identities, contributing to journals in geography, urban studies, and digital research.

Scientific awards and recognitions include:

• Ex-æquo second prize for PhD thesis, Fondazione Verzasca
• SNF Early Post-Doc Grant
• Award from Fondazione Verzasca for best diploma work
• Grant from Académie suisse des sciences humaines et sociales

Cometta actively supports doctoral education and research projects at ISUP, assisting in funding applications and coordinating training events. He has secured multiple grants from the Swiss National Science Foundation and other institutions for projects on marginal urbanities, digital technologies, and territorial identity. He is also involved in professional networks such as the International Sociological Association and the European Association for the Study of Science and Technology.

He is affiliated with research groups including Cibersomosaguas, Grupo de pesquisa Cultura, História e Estado, and Gea, and contributes to public discourse through lectures, podcasts, and interactive resources. His current work continues to explore the hidden dynamics of power in conservation and urban development, advocating for more inclusive and equitable spatial policies.