Leeds has a long tradition of providing cutting-edge analysis techniques and policy predictions based on the latest science and information. The Centre for Spatial Analysis and Policy (CSAP) builds on that tradition by developing innovative ways of looking at the world to understand business, society and the environment at different spatial scales and by providing applied or policy-related analyses of geographical behaviour.
We have wide-ranging research interests in quantitative geography. Our particular research interests include population dynamics, migration, geodemographics, retailing, education, crime and health. We have specific expertise in analysis and modelling methods including microsimulation, agent-based modelling, spatial interaction models, AI techniques, demographic estimation and projection, and applications of GIS. The group is also leading advances in big data analytics through the Consumer Data Research Centre and the Leeds Institute for Data Analytics. CSAP strives to develop innovative ways of looking at the world to understand business, society and the environment at different spatial scales by providing applied or policy-related analyses of geographical behaviour. Key questions for future societies include:
Whilst much of our research is UK Research Council funded, we also undertake research in partnership with a number of European, national, regional and local public sector institutions as well as private sector organisations. We also provide education and training appropriate for both academic and commercial worlds. We teach Masters programmes and Undergraduate modules based on our latest research, enabling students to acquire quantitative skills that are in demand in the real world as well as training for academic research careers. This includes an innovative and very successful distance learning course in GIS which includes many aspects of spatial analysis and modelling within a GIS environment.