SENSE Symposium 2026 – Reimagining Sustainability: Connecting Systems, Challenges and Future Pathways
Sustainability researchers are increasingly confronted with interconnected challenges that transcend disciplinary, sectoral, and governance boundaries. This one-day symposium invites PhD researchers from across the SENSE network to explore sustainability through a nexus perspective, examining the complex interrelations between environmental, social, economic, technological, and governance dimensions of sustainability.
The Symposium will be a place for students to bring their perspective on the sustainability nexus based on their ongoing research, discuss and learn others’ perspectives on the sustainability nexus, with a focus on SDGs and the post-2030 Agenda.
Participants will reflect on how their research contributes to addressing sustainability challenges across sectors and scales, spanning topics such as natural resources, food systems, water governance, energy transitions, biodiversity, climate adaptation, public health, digitalization, governance, economics, and social justice. Together, they will explore emerging priorities, innovative governance approaches, and future research pathways towards more sustainable and resilient societies.
Designed as an interactive and community-oriented event, the symposium will feature inspiring plenary sessions, a choice of thematic workshops, and dedicated networking opportunities. Bringing together PhD researchers, experienced academics, and representatives from policy, civil society, and the private sector, the symposium offers a unique space to exchange ideas, build interdisciplinary collaborations, and contribute to conversations shaping future sustainability pathways.
Call for Contributions to the ‘Voices from the Future’ Gallery:
What might the world look like in 2040? We invite you to go beyond academic papers and share your vision through a letter from the future, fictional headline, illustration, comic, infographic, AI-generated image or any other creative format.
Contributions will help shape the Reimagining Sustainability Futures interactive lab, and selected pieces may also be exhibited at the Groningen Sustainability Conference (GSC 2027).
The extended submission deadline is 30 October 2026. Read the full call & the submission guidelines on the SENSE website.
More information
Join us for a day of inspiration, learning, and connection as we explore sustainability from diverse disciplinary perspectives. For more information, the programme and registration, visit the SENSE website.