Professor Deliang Chen, Chair Professor at Tsinghua University and International Science Council (ISC) Fellow, along with Dr. Siquan Yang, Director of the National Institute of Natural Hazards, visited the Integrated Research on Disaster Risk (IRDR) International Programme Office (IPO) on 8 August 2025 to discuss strategic collaboration in disaster risk reduction (DRR).

The delegation met with IRDR Executive Director Professor Saini Yang to explore ways to strengthen IRDR’s global leadership in DRR research. Participants proposed three pillars to advance IRDR missions: technology-policy linkages, systemic risk research, and regional capacity support. To amplify IRDR’s global impact, the group emphasized the importance of engaging leading scholars while fostering opportunities for early-career researchers through IRDR’s network, especially its International Centres of Excellence (ICoEs) and Young Scientist Programme.

Both Tsinghua University and the National Institute of Natural Hazards expressed strong interest in deepening collaboration with IRDR, leveraging combined expertise to develop innovative DRR strategies.

A Legacy of Leadership in Disaster Risk Research
Professor Chen, a key architect of IRDR, played a pivotal role in its establishment in 2009 through the cosponsor-ship of ICSU (now ISC), ISSC, and UNISDR. His continued engagement underscores IRDR’s enduring influence in global disaster risk science.

Expanding IRDR’s Global Network
IRDR recently opened applications for new IRDR ICoEs and members of the IRDR Young Scientist Programme, aiming to broaden its international partnerships. IRDR invites institutions and researchers worldwide to join its mission in advancing disaster resilience through science and policy innovation.