Dr. Katherine Idziorek

Dr. Katherine Idziorek
• Assistant Professor
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