Urban Systems Lab is an interdisciplinary research, design and practice centre at New York University, based in New York City. Founded in 2015 by urban ecologist Timon McPhearson, it develops research and tools intended to help cities address social and environmental challenges, with a focus on equity, resilience and sustainability.23 McPhearson is its founding director; Chris Kennedy is associate director.3
The lab works with researchers, policymakers, designers and communities, and partners with city governments, NGOs and other organisations. Its research spans climate adaptation, urban resilience, nature-based solutions, land-use planning, biodiversity, data visualisation and urban data science.211 Its geographic reach is global, while its work also includes city-specific projects and technical assistance.21
Among its projects are the NYC Flood Vulnerability Index, which maps how exposure, susceptibility and capacity to recover shape flood vulnerability, and ClimateIQ, a multi-hazard risk and vulnerability tool that uses machine learning and climate models to identify overlapping risks.1 The lab has also contributed to New York City climate planning, including the Stormwater Resiliency Plan, Cool Neighborhoods programme and heat-emergency strategies.1 Its NATURA Global Roadmap assesses research and practice on urban nature-based solutions.1
The lab moved from The New School to NYU, joining the university’s Environmental Studies Department on July 1, 2025.9 Its current listed address is Goddard Hall, 79 Washington Square East, New York.2