University of Leeds sets out vision for a values-driven university

Launch of Leeds Institute for Societal Futures marks a new chapter in research-led change

At the recent launch event, Professor Hai-Sui Yu, Provost and Deputy Vice- Chancellor of the University of Leeds, affirmed the University’s commitment to make shaping a better future through research and education.

Leeds Institute for Societal Futures embodies this ambition by delivering societally relevant and globally impactful research and education

Professor Yu highlighted the urgency of the challenges we face:

“We live in a complex and ever-changing world, with urgent threats to much that is familiar. From ethical challenges in AI and digital society, to persistent health inequalities, migration dynamics and social polarisation – these issues demand action that is both innovative and inclusive. The new institute will address these challenges head-on, bridging the gap between knowledge creation and real-world impact.”

Later at the event, Professor Louise Waite, founding Director of the new institute, unveiled the four core challenge areas that will drive the institute’s work.

Professor Waite underscored that Leeds Institute for Societal Futures is bringing together teams across disciplines - SHAPE (Social Sciences, Humanities and the Arts for People and the Economy) and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) - to set out to find shared goals, facilitate joint research and innovation, building on strengths and focus on the questions that really matter.

Challenge-led education

Over the next five years, Leeds Institute for Societal Futures will launch four new challenge-based taught postgraduate programmes. The first, AI Ethics and Society (MSc), launched at the event, begins in October 2026, and is open for applications now. Bringing together experts from across the University working at the forefront of research into how AI is reshaping our world.  As AI advances, so do concerns over data bias, surveillance misinformation, labour exploitation, and environmental impact – all of which risk deepening social inequalities and eroding public trust.

Stakeholder involvement from day one

During the presentations, the Director of Leeds Institute for Societal Futures made it clear – this is a collective endeavour.  Attendees were invited to share what they see as the most urgent challenges facing our communities, helping shape the institute’s agenda from the ground up.

We want to hear your thoughts too: add your suggestions to our challenge area padlets (online live bulletin boards).