Minnesota, USA: The University of Minnesota has named Anant Maringanti as the new director of its Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of Global Change (ICGC). This significant appointment highlights Maringanti's extensive expertise in interdisciplinary research and his commitment to advancing social justice.

Maringanti, who currently leads the Hyderabad Urban Lab under the Right to the City Foundation, is set to take on his new role later this spring. The Hyderabad Urban Lab, a multidisciplinary research initiative, has become a prominent platform for urban research and education in India under his guidance. The lab addresses the pressing issues faced by rapidly urbanizing areas, blending academic research with practical solutions.

Harvey Charles, vice provost for International Affairs, praised Maringanti’s appointment, stating, “Anant’s wealth of experience and his dedication to innovative, collaborative leadership make him an excellent choice to guide ICGC. We are delighted to have him return to the University and eagerly anticipate the contributions he will make.”

Since 2012, Maringanti has led numerous initiatives, mentoring over 50 young scholars, securing funding from organizations like UNICEF and the WIPRO Foundation, and fostering partnerships with institutions such as the Centre for Policy Research and the Indian Institute for Human Settlements. His work combines academic inquiry with actionable interventions to address urban challenges effectively.

In addition to his leadership at the Hyderabad Urban Lab, Maringanti has taught graduate courses at the National University of Singapore and the University of Hyderabad. His research, which delves into social movements, urbanization, and the politics of development, has been widely published in prestigious academic journals worldwide.

Reflecting on his new position, Maringanti remarked, “My career has been driven by a desire to bridge the divide between theoretical insights and practical applications. I am eager to build on ICGC’s legacy of fostering interdisciplinary solutions to global issues and supporting the growth of future scholars.”

Maringanti is an alumnus of the University of Minnesota, holding both an MA and PhD in Geography, Environment, and Society. A former ICGC Scholar, he has consistently focused his academic and professional efforts on tackling critical global challenges, with a particular emphasis on South Asia.