Aalto WiTLAB - World in Transition
Humanitarian crises call for our action
Aalto WiTLAB - World in Transition
What is the role of architecture in the globalizing world?
Aalto WiTLAB - World in Transition
Can architecture be a component in capacity building?
Aalto WiTLAB - World in Transition
An interdisciplinary network of education and research
Aalto WiTLAB - World in Transition
Aiming for global real-life impact on the built environment
Aalto WiT (World in Transition) LAB is an interdisciplinary cross-school research and education unit hosting collaborative initiatives across Aalto University. It is rooted in sustainable development of the built environment in vulnerable communities and fragile environments globally. WiTLAB serves as a platform for researchers and projects focusing on resilient human settlements, humanitarian architecture, community engagement and grass roots action. It furthers the Aalto University’s strategy on sustainability, transdisciplinary collaboration and Life-Wide-Learning.
Aalto WiTLAB provides a flexible and horizontal network for units and individuals within and outside Aalto University, with a variety of interests and professional experience on related topics. The international experience of the members creates a vast global network of experts, institutes, programs and universities. It is a forum for discussion and action for people within the academia, who are passionate about changing the world for the better.
Aalto WiTLAB coordinates and carries out basic and applied research, publication of topical literature and expert assignments on the above-mentioned themes. Under the Aalto WiTLAB umbrella, It supports two distinct educational pathways: master’s level studies and the WiTProgramme, a professional diploma course. For more information about these opportunities, visit the Education tab.
Aalto WiT Programme
Aalto WiT Programme is a 3,5-month transdisciplinary professional diploma programme under the Aalto University World in Transition Research LAB (WiTLAB). The programme focuses on the resilience of human settlements in low and middle-income countries.
People
Aalto WiTLAB consists of a team of researchers and educators, constantly looking for new collaborations and transdisciplinary partnerships worldwide. Image: Lauri Nykopp
WiTLAB alumni stories
Meet the professionals who have participated in WiTLAB's courses and collaborative projects through time! Here you find interviews where the alumni share their learning experiences and career journeys after graduating from Aalto University.
Case 5 - Kigali, Rwanda
Bringing attention to the Effective Healing Environment in sub-Saharan Africa’s Health Facilities.
Case 4 - Nairobi Rivers, Kenya
Addressing the severe environmental degradation and climate vulnerabilities affecting the Nairobi River basin.
Case 3 - Iringa, Tanzania
Sanitation and waste management for Lyra Hostels for girls in secondary schools.
Case 1 - Madesh and Sudurpaschim Province, Nepal
Addressing Disproportionate Impacts of Disasters on Women and Children's livelihood in Madhesh and Sudurpaschim Provinces.Background
Aalto WiTLAB was founded in 2014 to adress challenges in the Global Majority context. It connects to the larger strategies and frameworks of the UN Agenda 2030.
News
Current news related to WiTLAB
Apply now: Global Engagement seed funding call 2026
The Global Engagement seed funding call supports the development of international partnerships and global mobility in research, education, innovation and entrepreneurship. Call is open until 1st of June 2026.
How to attract employees back to the office
Return-to-office policies are popular among employers, but securing employee cooperation hinges on offering them a fair exchange in return for accepting less autonomy.
Assistance dogs interpret needs of the person they assist non-verbally
A recent study shows that assistance dogs not only help people with practical tasks, but also actively contribute to their care
Professor Johannes M. Arend from Acoustics Lab receives Lothar-Cremer Award
Professor Johannes M. Arend was honoured for his innovative and groundbreaking work in the fields of binaural technology and virtual acousticsSaija Hollmén, Professor of Practice in Humanitarian Architecture at Aalto UniversityOur globe is a closed system, and in the end, we all share the same resources. The fact that these now are unequally distributed should be the concern of us all.
Events
Events related to WiTLAB's interests
AI in Research Work, April 28, 2026
Learn about generative artificial intelligence in research work with Data Agents Dr. Enrico Glerean and Dr. Pedro Silva
Design After the Cuts
As design functions face cuts and restructuring worldwide, Arianne Miller invites the community to examine the identity crisis, celebrate resilient practices, and imagine more lasting, human-centered models for public-sector innovation.
Otaniemi on a sustainable path in May
A variety of events and activities on offer all May to remind people of sustainable choices in mobility.