P.PUL recognizes the undeniable relevance of space for various societal processes and vice versa. People and society are at the very core of its research lines and methodological preferences. P.PUL research focuses primarily on sociological, ecological, environmental as well as political aspects. It addresses housing, migration, ageing, socio-ecology, the use of open space, and political processes in urban and urbanising contexts.

P.PUL critically questions existing socio-spatial concepts and ideas that circulate in society and academia, as well as the position of experts in these domains in relation to other disciplines, authorities, civil society organisations  and individuals. P.PUL researchers further share the ambition to explore and represent different societal challenges in relation to land use at varying scales and through time, envisioning insights about the past into the present and to the future.

P.PUL conducts both fundamental and applied research, relying mainly on qualitative research methods. Moreover, its researchers combine methods and techniques from several disciplines (sociology, history, ecology, design, political sciences, etc.), but always keep space as their primary focus of attention. The sourcing and sharing of knowledge from and with societal actors are of crucial importance in this endeavour. It positions P.PUL as an active participant in the public debate besides its contribution to the scientific field of urban planning.  ​