We spoke to University of Salford lecturer Dr Devindi Geekiyanage about the power of community-centred research, and why meaningful engagement with diverse communities is essential for creating lasting social impact.

Dr. Devindi Geekiyanage is a lecturer in quantity surveying at the School of Science, Engineering, and Environment. Her work focuses on community engagement, inclusion, social cohesion, and participatory research approaches. With experience spanning the UK, Sri Lanka, and international collaborations, she explores how communities, particularly those in vulnerable or marginalised contexts, can play an active role in shaping research, policy, and decision-making.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why research must involve people and communities, not just systems, infras ...