PARTNERS
INSTITUTION
DESCRIPTION
University of Groningen
Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, established in 1614, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the Netherlands. The Energy and Sustainability Research Institute Groningen (ESRIG) and the Integrated Research on Energy, Environment & Society (IREES) research center are at the forefront of studying innovative pathways to decarbonization.
IREES, in particular, integrates interdisciplinary research to address the complex interplay between energy systems, environmental impact, and societal change. By developing advanced models and technologies, this research center provide critical insights and solutions for achieving a low-carbon economy.
The university actively collaborates with industry, government, and international partners to implement practical and scalable energy transition strategies. Its integrated approach, combining expertise in natural sciences, engineering, and social sciences, ensures that research findings are not only academically robust but also applicable in real-world scenarios. This makes University of Groningen a vital contributor to global efforts in sustainable energy solutions and climate change mitigation, playing a crucial role in advancing decarbonization research.
Jagiellonian University
Capturing Invisible LAB
The Jagiellonian University (JU) team, hailing from the Institute of Sociology at the Jagiellonian University, brings a wealth of expertise to the forefront of research and innovation. Renowned for their extensive experience in implementing prominent EU and national research projects such as Tempus Fugit, Energy SHIFTS, COMETS, VAX-TRUST, gEneSys, and PANTHEON, the JU team stands at the cutting edge of sociological inquiry and interdisciplinary collaboration.
With profound empirical and theoretical knowledge, the team excels in exploring the intricate intersections of science, society, and technology. Their work spans crucial domains, including policy analysis, public discourse, and stakeholder engagement, particularly focusing on regional-state and global level deliberation and collaboration.
The JU team’s academic prowess is complemented by prestigious fellowships at globally renowned institutions such as Harvard University, King’s College London, and ETH Zurich. These experiences have enriched their perspectives and methodologies, fostering a dynamic and innovative approach to research.
Committed to advancing societal understanding and technological integration, the JU team is a beacon of excellence in sociological research, dedicated to shaping informed, inclusive, and forward-thinking communities
University of Zaragoza
The University of Zaragoza is a public teaching and research institution whose aim is to serve society. As the largest higher education centre in the Ebro Valley, the University combines almost five centuries of tradition and history (since 1542) with a constantly updated range of courses.
Its main mission is to generate and convey knowledge to provide students with a broad education. The University bases its principles on quality, solidarity and openness and aims to be an instrument of social transformation to drive economic and cultural development.
The University of Zaragoza has consolidated its position in international rankings and it is now among the top 2% of the most prestigious universities worldwide. It is one of the 10 best out of the 84 throughout Spain. We are among the highest-rated 25 best worldwide in sports science, among the top 100 in chemistry and among the best 200 in Computer Science.
Through its comprehensive research and strong partnerships, the University of Zaragoza plays a crucial role in advancing global decarbonization projects and promoting sustainable development.With profound empirical and theoretical knowledge, the team excels in exploring the intricate intersections of science, society, and technology. Their work spans crucial domains, including policy analysis, public discourse, and stakeholder engagement, particularly focusing on regional-state and global level deliberation and collaboration.
The JU team’s academic prowess is complemented by prestigious fellowships at globally renowned institutions such as Harvard University, King’s College London, and ETH Zurich. These experiences have enriched their perspectives and methodologies, fostering a dynamic and innovative approach to research.
Committed to advancing societal understanding and technological integration, the JU team is a beacon of excellence in sociological research, dedicated to shaping informed, inclusive, and forward-thinking communities
University of Valladolid
The University of Valladolid (UVA), one of the world’s oldest universities with nearly 800 years of history, is located in the culturally rich and extensive region of Castilla y León, Spain. This public university spans four campuses in Palencia, Segovia, Soria, Valladolid and educates more than 22,000 students, including around 1,500 international students, annually.
The UVA’s commitment to continuous education, extensive international relations, prestigious research centers, rich cultural and sports offerings, strong social and environmental dedication create an exceptional academic environment.
The university is renowned for its excellent research, supported by 18 research centers, 12 research institutes, and 178 research groups.
The Energy, Economy, and System Dynamics Group (GEEDS), composed of professors and researchers with prior experience in environmental studies and a personal commitment to ecology and cooperation development, focuses on energy and economy as key factors in technology and life, and on system dynamics as the most suitable tool to analyze the complex relationships influencing sustainability and development. GREEDS’s members aim to strengthen the link between the university and society by disseminating their results, engaging with social organizations, and selecting research topics of societal interest.
Max Planck Institute for Chemistry
The Max-Planck-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Wissenschaften e. V., founded in 1948, is one of the world’s leading research institutions, renowned for its groundbreaking contributions to various scientific fields. With 86 institutes and research facilities across Germany, the society conducts cutting-edge research in disciplines ranging from natural sciences to social sciences and humanities. Max Planck Institute for Chemistry aims at an integral understanding of chemical processes in the Earth system, particularly in the atmosphere and biosphere. The institute explores the interactions of the climate, ocean, and atmospheric systems from geologic to annual time scales. Investigations address a wide range of interactions between air, water, soil, life and climate in the course of Earth history up to today´s human-driven epoch, the anthropocene. Its research endeavors are crucial for understanding and addressing global challenges, including climate change and energy transition.
Peking University
Originated as the Imperial University of Peking in 1898, Peking University(PKU) was China’s first national comprehensive university and the supreme education authority at the time. Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, it has developed into a comprehensive university with fundamental education and research in both humanities and science. The College of Urban and Environmental Scineces and Institute of Carbon Neutrality in Peking University focus on comprehensive research in areas such as regional and global environmental pollution, biodiversity conservation, climate change and carbon cycling, carbon neutrality and climate-environment synergies, and global climate governance policies and pathways. Through collaborative efforts, the university aims to address fundamental scientific issues and critical technological challenges necessary to meet national climate goals. By leading advancements in scientific foundations, engineering technologies, policy, and governance, the school strives to establish itself as a highly influential hub for climate pathways and sustainable development innovation on an international scale.
Tsinghua University
Tsinghua University, founded in 1911, is a prestigious university for China, known for its rigorous academic programs and outstanding research contributions. Located in Beijing, Tsinghua University offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various fields, including engineering, science, business, humanities, and social sciences. The university’s Institute of Energy, Environment, and Economy is at the forefront of studying and developing decarbonization pathways, focusing on renewable energy technologies, smart grid systems, and sustainable urban planning. Tsinghua’s strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and international collaboration allows it to tackle complex global challenges related to climate change and energy sustainability. The university’s commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that its research findings are both academically robust and practically applicable, making Tsinghua a critical player in global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development.
Southern University of Science and Technology
Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) is an innovation-oriented public university founded by Shenzhen government in the background of China’s higher education reform. It was officially approved by the Ministry of Education in April 2012. SUSTech bears the responsibility for exploring and developing a modern university system with Chinese characteristics to serve as a model for cultivating innovative talents. SUSTech aims at a globally renowned university that contributes to the advancement of science and technology. It nurtures promising and creative leaders who excel in interdisciplinary research and creating knowledge for the world.
SUSTech draws on the experience of world-class science and engineering universities for its disciplinary establishment and governance. It focuses on science, engineering, and medicine in conjunction with distinctive disciplines, including business, humanities, and social sciences. SUSTech offers undergraduate and postgraduate education while conducting research in a series of innovative disciplines. All of those practices shape SUSTech into a think tank for social progress and a generator of new knowledge and new technology.
The School of Environment at SUSTech, established in May 2015, addresses China’s strategic environmental needs with a strong emphasis on cutting-edge research. The school specializes in areas such as climate change, air pollution control, water resources, and soil remediation. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Environmental Science and Engineering, and Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering. The research team, renowned for their international experience and accolades, focus on global environmental challenges, driving innovative research and technological advancements to develop solutions for pressing issues like climate change and air quality improvement.
Beijing Institute of Technology
Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT), established in 1940, stands as a beacon of innovation in China’s capital. Renowned for its excellence in engineering, science, and technology, BIT is at the cutting edge of research that drives the future of sustainable energy. The university’s pioneering work in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and environmental engineering underpins its commitment to decarbonization.
BIT’s research initiatives are further strengthened by its state-of-the-art facilities and rich academic community that fosters creativity and technological advancement. The university collaborates extensively with industry leaders and government bodies, ensuring that its research translates into practical, scalable solutions. Notably, BIT’s efforts in the development of smart energy management systems and carbon capture technologies have garnered significant attention for their potential to drastically reduce carbon emissions.
With its forward-thinking approach and robust partnerships, BIT is instrumental in advancing China’s shift towards a low-carbon economy. Morevoer, its international collaborations and participation in global research networks enhance its impact, making BIT a key player in global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable energy solutions.
ENN Group Ltd
The ENN Group is a is a leading Chinese energy company, uniquely positioned at the intersection of research, development, and practical application. Unlike traditional academic institutions, ENN leverages its commercial capabilities to drive forward innovative energy solutions. The company is a pioneer in green hydrogen production, developing cutting-edge technologies that turn renewable energy into clean fuel. ENN is also at the forefront of carbon capture and utilization, creating systems that can effectively reduce industrial carbon emissions. Its smart energy systems optimize energy use and efficiency across entire networks. ENN’s collaborations with leading academic institutions and research organizations worldwide enable it to stay ahead in the field of sustainable energy. As a primary actor of the energy sector, ENN Group plays a crucial role in global decarbonization efforts, transforming the energy landscape for a cleaner future.
University College London
University College London (UCL), established in 1826, is a global leader in research and education, situated in the vibrant heart of London. The Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment at UCL are at the forefront of tackling climate change through innovative research and policy development. The university’s work in renewable energy encompasses everything from advanced photovoltaic technologies to innovative wind energy solutions. UCL researchers are also pioneers in energy policy, shaping strategies that drive the global transition to sustainable energy systems. The university’s sustainable urban systems research addresses the pressing need for cities to reduce their carbon footprint, focusing on smart city technologies and sustainable transport solutions. UCL’s interdisciplinary approach and extensive network of international collaborations ensure that its research has a real-world impact. By bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and practical implementation, UCL is a key player in the global effort to achieve a sustainable, low-carbon future.BIT’s research initiatives are further strengthened by its state-of-the-art facilities and rich academic community that fosters creativity and technological advancement. The university collaborates extensively with industry leaders and government bodies, ensuring that its research translates into practical, scalable solutions. Notably, BIT’s efforts in the development of smart energy management systems and carbon capture technologies have garnered significant attention for their potential to drastically reduce carbon emissions.
With its forward-thinking approach and robust partnerships, BIT is instrumental in advancing China’s shift towards a low-carbon economy. Morevoer, its international collaborations and participation in global research networks enhance its impact, making BIT a key player in global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable energy solutions.
The PANTHEON Team
Nuccio Ludovico
PostDoc Researcher
University of Groningen
PhD in Social and Environmental Psychology, he is engaged in WP7 for Project Management & Coordination of the PANTHEON project. His main domains of expertise are data and text mining, computational text analysis, network modeling.
Jeong Han Lee
Research Officer
University of Groningen
A PhD candidate with a MsC in Environmental and Infrastructure Planning, specialises in network and qualitative analyses focused on climate change discourse networks. Currently involved in WP4 and WP5 on the European side.
Klaus Hubacek
Professor
University of Groningen
Klaus Hubacek is an ecological economist with a research focus on conceptualizing and modeling the interaction between human and environmental systems. Klaus has worked extensively with stakeholders in participatory research projects and led large interdisciplinary research teams.
Guofeng SHEN
Assistant Professor
Peking University
Dr. Guofeng Shen’s researches focus on evaluation of CO2 and air pollutant emissions from combustion sources espeically the residential sector on air quality, human health, and climate at regional and global scales. He is mainly engaged in WP4 in the project from the China side.
Aleksandra Wagner
Professor
Jagiellonian University- Capturing Invisible LAB
Professor at the Institute of Sociology, Jagiellonian University. Aleksandra’s research focuses on social aspects of energy transitions and responsible technology development. Recently, she has been investigating the relationship between decarbonisation, democratisation and digitalisation in energy policy.
Franco Ruzzenenti
Associate Professor
University of Groningen
I was born in Brescia on March 20, 1975 and graduated in Environmental Economics from the University of Siena in 2001, but I have a PhD in Environmental Chemistry, obtained in 2007. In the following years, while I held a position in DC, I I spent much of my time and energy trying to get my master’s degree in physics, which I abandoned after the birth of my daughter (much to the relief of my wife and colleagues). I am now an associate professor at the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Groningen, where I teach energy modeling and complex systems theory.
Huizhong Shen
Associate Professor
Southern University of Science and Technology
Huizhong Shen is currently an associate professor at SUSTech. He received his B.S. degree and Ph.D. degree from Peking University. Before he joined SUSTech, he was a post-doctoral researcher at Georgia Institute of Technology. His research interests include development of regional and global emission inventories of air pollutants, air quality modeling, integrated assessment of population exposure&health and their driving forces. He has published more than 120 papers in peer-reviewed journals including Nature Energy, Nature Human Behaviour, Nature Food, Science Advances, PNAS, Nature Communications, One Earth, Environmental Science & Technology, Environmental International, etc., with the total citation of over 10000 and h-index of 58 (google scholar citation).
Cristina Sarasa
Associate Professor
University of Zaragoza
PhD in Economics, expert in multisectoral and multiregional economic modelling, and especially in CGE modelling and econometris. She is engaged in WP3 for fore-and backcasting scenarios into an integrated modelling framework.
Wenjun Meng
PostDoc Researcher
Max Planck Institute for Chemistry
Wenjun Meng is a postdoctoral researcher at Max Planck Institute for Chemistry. She received her PhD degree in Environmental Geography from Peking University. Her research interests include integrated assessment of air pollution mitigation strategies and air quality modeling.
Ke Jiang
PhD Candidate
Peking University
Ke Jiang is a Ph.D. student at College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University. He received his bachelor degree of Environment Science from Peking University in 2022. His research mainly focuses on climate and air quality model, environmental and climate impact of anthropogenic emissions, and energy transition and inequality. He will engage in the climate pathway simulation and evaluation in WP4.
Tadeusz Rudek
PhD, P.I. of the WP5 & WP6
Jagiellonian University - Capturing Invisible LAB
Tadeusz Rudek, a PhD in sociology, works at Jagiellonian University, Kraków. He’s been a fellow at Harvard’s STS program and ETH Zürich. He leads the WP5 at Horizon Europe’s PANTHEON, assists EU-funded Horizon projects, and studies energy transitions in EU, China and Taiwan through his project and publications in Energy-SSH. Speaks: English, Chinese, Spanish, and Russian, his research focuses on STS, sociology of energy, and climate adaptation policies.
Luis J. Miguel
Professor
University of Valladolid
Luis Javier Miguel is a professor of systems engineering and automatic control. For the last 10 years he has been working on the development of Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs) with system dynamics. His main interest is in the modeling of environmental and social systems.
Jing Meng
Professor
University College London
Jing is an environmental economist with a research focus on understanding technological development and designing technologically and economically feasible decarbonisation pathways at multiple scales.
Sara Pavesio
PhD researcher in the WP3
University of Valladolid
Sara Pavesio is a predoctoral researcher in the Department of Applied Economics in the University of Valladolid She is also a researcher in the Energy, Economics and System Dynamics Group. Her current line of research is related to inequalities, focusing on gender and income inequality in Integrated Assessment Models.
Ruoqi Li
PostDoc Researcher
University of Groningen
Jaime Nieto
Assistant Professor
University of Valladolid
Assistant Proffesor at University of Valladolid (Spain). PhD in Economics, Jaime Nieto teaches World Economy and his research fields focuses in the relionships between energy, economy and the environment, from an Ecological Economics approach. He has participated in deifferent European research projects. His research entails the development of policy-simulation Integrated Assessment Models, integrating System Dynamics and Input-Output analysis, with the objetive of assessing the socioeconomic impacts of the energy transition towards sustanability. Jaime also collaborates with the University of Leeds, developing macroeconometric energy-economy-environment models.
Bo-Quan Li
Associate Professor
Beijing Institute of Technology
Dr. Bo-Quan Li main focuses on the development of advanced energy storage technologies such as lithium sulfur batteries and zinc air batteries. He was selected as a “Highly Cited Researcher” by Clarivate Analytics from 2021 to 2023. His work mainly involves in WP2.
Yafang Cheng
Professor
Max Planck Institute for Chemistry
Dr. Yafang Cheng is the head of Minerva Independent Research Group at Max Planck Institute for Chemistry. Her main research interests are multi-scale modeling tools and machine learning techniques to understand aerosol particle formation and transformation, as well as the impact of aerosols on air quality, public health and climate change.
Lei Zhu
Assistant Professor
Southern University of Science and Technology
Lei Zhu worked as a Research Scholar at Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics before joining SUSTech. His research area is atmospheric chemistry with interests including remote sensing of trace gases, data assimilation, air quality, and atmosphere-land-ocean interactions. Lei has published more than 50 journal papers, with the total citation of > 3300 and the h-index of 28. He is a science team member of several satellites such as OMI, OMPS, TEMPO, GEMS, and Gaofen-2. Lei was awarded American Meteorological Special Award (2020), William T. Pecora Team Award (NASA and DOI, 2018), NASA Group Achievement Award (2015), and Harvard University Certificate of Distinction in Teaching (2013). Ground website: https://www.acmrsg.org.