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Unravelling

Complexity

What we do

POLDER creates a collaborative space where stakeholders and researchers from various academic fields jointly gain deep and encompassing insights into policymaking, addressing urgent societal challenges. We equip stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of complex problems by using theories and tools from complexity science, thus driving positive policy impacts.

Methodology

Our novel approach builds upon complexity theory and multidisciplinary co-creation in order to help policymakers unravel the complexity of societal challenges.  

Together with experts and policymakers, we map the causal relations underlying the societal challenges. We translate this into computational models that can be used to explore what-if scenarios and simulate interventions. 

This unique combination of computational techniques and co-creation allows thorough exploration of potential policy interventions. Critically, this helps reveal and avoid potential unintended consequences of policy, thereby helping to make better decisions in an increasingly interconnected and rapidly changing world. 

Complexity Theory

Computational modelling

Participatory model building

Simulations & policy scenarios

About us

POLDER is a research collaborative based at the UvA Institute for Advanced Study (IAS). At its core we are building knowledge on complexity science, system dynamics and network science, made tangible through computational modelling and simulations. A community researchers works on and with the POLDER methodology, together we evolve this field within the UvA and beyond.

Mike Lees

Mike Lees

Lead POLDER | Associate Professor Social Complexity at UvA | IAS Principle Investigator

Vítor V. Vasconcelos

Vítor V. Vasconcelos

Co-lead POLDER | Assistant Professor Complex Systems & Policy at UvA

Fabian Dablander

Fabian Dablander

Postdoctoral Researcher Complexity theory

Ted Jan Post

Ted Jan Post

Impact Developer IXA & IAS

t.post@uva.nl
+31 681963472

Collaborations

In our research we closely collaborate with policymakers on complex challenges, uncovering previously unknown patterns and consequences at the systems level. We strive for all of our collaborations to meet to following expectations:

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Unravelling complexity through multidisciplinary co-creation

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Using computational tools to model and simulate policy interventions

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Delivering actionable evidence-based insights for the policymaker/stakeholders

Curious how POLDER can help you navigate complex challenges?