Rakib Akhtar

Dr. Rakib Akhtar is a Lecturer in Urban Planning at the University of Birmingham, affiliated with the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences. His research focuses on technology-oriented urbanization, infrastructure development, and their intersections with right-wing nationalism. He holds a DPhil (Oxford), MSc from University College London, and dual degrees in Architecture and Building Sciences from Panjab University. Dr. Akhtar contributes to courses across the Dubai and Edgbaston campuses, including 'LM Smart Cities' and 'LM Planning for Healthy Cities.' His work bridges Urban Planning, Political Economy, and Development Studies, with a particular emphasis on India and South Asia. He co-edited the book COVID-19 in South Asia: Society, Economics and Politics (2024) and has published in journals like South Asia: Journal of South Asian Studies and Habitat International. Professional memberships include the Royal Town Planning Institute (UK) and licensed architect status in India.

Research Interests: Technology in urbanization, neoliberalism, Hindutva, right-wing nationalism, and infrastructure policy. He explores how political economies shape urban development, particularly in South Asian contexts.

Teaching: Courses on urban geography, development geographies, and planning methodologies. He emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and global South perspectives.

Grants & Advising: No specific grants listed, but active in research networks like 'Cities, Regions and Mobility.' No advisees listed in the provided data.