Bio
Ákos Balog is a PhD Researcher at the University of Liverpool. He is a member of the Geographic Data Science Lab, a centre of excellence for research and teaching, solving grand human challenges through geographic data science. He achieved his Undergraduate Degree in Geography and Planning in 2022 and completing a Masters in Data Analytics and Society in 2024, both at the University of Liverpool. Ákos is also a researcher on the Big Data Digital Twin of Mass Transit in the Liverpool City Region for Smart, Equitable Mobility through Innovate UK project in collaboration with private and public stakeholders, aiming to better shape and control the transport network in the Liverpool City Region.
Research interests
Ákos' work focuses on the development of a digital twin of the retail centres in the Liverpool City Region using agent-based modelling. The project integrates extensive data encompassing the attributes, utilisation trends, and dynamics of these retail spaces. Ákos' research is an interdisciplinary collaboration with the Planning, Investment, and Data Analysis departments at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. Together, the aim is to develop advanced models capable of simulating scenarios such as the creation of new centres, the closure of anchor stores, or the influence of the expansion of centres, in order to understand how policy can fortify the sustainability and enduring resilience of the retail landscape in the region. Leveraging data from the Consumer Data Research Centre and the LCRCA, the project amalgamates insights from consumer lifestyles datasets and open indicators delineating retail centre locations within the region. Ákos' work at the Turing will focus on developing the agent-based model, increase complexity and scope, while focusing on the expansion of the impact of his research.