Dr. Katherine Idziorek

Katherine Idziorek, AICP, PhD, is a community-engaged researcher who examines the role of social networks and social infrastructure in community-scale resilience and disaster preparedness. Bridging the disciplines of hazard mitigation, urban sociology, and urban planning, Katherine’s research explores the role of place-based resources in supporting community resilience and wellbeing.

Before turning to a full-time academic career, Katherine practiced for eight years as a professional urban designer in the greater Seattle region, where her work focused on multimodal transportation planning and long-range community visioning. She has also served as an affiliate faculty member of the University of Washington’s Department of Urban Design and Planning as well as a City of Seattle Planning Commissioner, working to bridge research and practice.

Education

• Interdisciplinary PhD in Urban Design and Planning, University of Washington (2021)
• Master of Urban Planning, University of Washington (2008)
• Master of Architecture, University of Washington (2007)

Teaching and research interests

• Community resilience
• Disaster preparedness and hazard mitigation
• Social networks
• Social infrastructure
• Urban design and planning
• Visual communication and graphic design
• Multimodal transportation planning