The Rising Voices initiative invites emerging scholars to develop original, critical interventions on the future of urban studies, as part of the Future of Urban Studies (FUS) programme. Selected contributors will receive editorial support to prepare a Critical Commentary and submit it to Urban Studies through the journal's established editorial process.

What are we looking for?

Concise, ambitious proposals that advance a clear critical argument rather than simply describe an ongoing research project. Proposals should engage with one or more of the three programme themes:

• Field: What new questions, urban experiences or theoretical challenges are emerging scholars bringing to the field?
• Institutions: How do academic structures and employment conditions shape whose urban knowledge is produced and recognised?
• Communication: How might early-career scholars reshape the relationships between urban research, wider publics, policy and practice?

These questions are illustrative, not exhaustive, and alternative arguments that speak substantively to FUS are welcome.

How to apply: Complete the application form by 16 November 2026, providing:

• A 500–700-word extended abstract explaining your question, core argument, contribution to urban studies and connection to FUS.
• A short biography and information about your current academic position (up to 100 words).
• A statement of up to 200 words explaining how the initiative would benefit your career.

Applications are evaluated for originality, quality of argument, relevance to FUS and feasibility as a Critical Commentary, with attention to the programme's early-career purpose.

Key dates:

• Call opens: 2 November 2026
• Applications close: 16 November 2026 (11:59 GMT/UK time)
• Decisions: early December 2026
• Manuscript submission: within 6 months of selection
• Podcast production: following journal acceptance, dates to be confirmed

For queries: admin@urbanstudiesjournal.com

• Researchers currently completing their doctorate.
• Or researchers holding untenured postdoctoral, lecturer or assistant professor positions.
• Applications from researchers based in the Global South are especially encouraged.
• Previous publication in Urban Studies is not required.
• All candidates apply through the same form, even if nominated by editors.

• Editorial support in preparing and submitting a Critical Commentary to Urban Studies within 6 months of selection, and throughout the revision process.
• An invitation to take part in a podcast on the contributor's Future of Urban Studies theme.
• A short blog adaptation may be discussed.
• Selection does not guarantee publication, but the editorial board is committed to providing as much support as possible in developing a Commentary suitable for the journal.