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Leeds Institute for Societal Futures Directors appointed as Civic Exchange Fellows

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Louise Waite and Briony Thomas smiling at the camera
Louise Waite and Briony Thomas at the launch of The Civic Exchange

Professor Louise Waite (Director) and Professor Briony Thomas (Deputy Director, Research and Engagement) have been appointed as inaugural Fellows of the University of Leeds' new Civic Exchange in recognition of  their leadership in bringing together researchers, communities, policymakers and organisations to tackle shared challenges. 

The Civic Exchange, launched this month, aims to strengthen collaboration between the University and regional partners, making it easier to connect with expertise and work together on issues such as health, economic growth and social inclusion. The launch event was attended by civic leaders from Leeds City Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, including Alison Lowe, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime in the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

Professor Waite said: 

The Civic Exchange is a powerful opportunity to strengthen the partnerships at the heart of Leeds Institute for Societal Futures. By bringing people together from different sectors, it helps us build on our shared ambitions and create meaningful change across the region. 

This recognition reflects LISF’s commitment to working in partnership to deliver research that makes a difference. 

Alison Lowe (OBE), Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, West Yorkshire Combined Authority
L-R: Nick Barley, Alison Lowe, Mariana Paxton, Dr Peter O'Brien and Professor Nick Plant.

Professor Briony Thomas is currently launching the Institute’s innovative seed funding programme, which supports joint projects between academics and civic or community partners to tackle real-world challenges. She also has a strong track record of working with schools and community groups to make research accessible and engaging. 

Professor Louise Waite has secured major funding from the ESRC (Economic and Social Research Council) Impact Acceleration Fund to support impactful social science research, including projects on the value of traditional markets and public trust in the media. She has also led work exploring how large organisations in Leeds can use their spending power to support local communities. 

To find out more about the work of Leeds Institute for Societal Futures, visit our website societal.leeds.ac.uk.    Further information about the launch of the Civic Exchange can be found here.