Dr. Kairos Shen

Biography

Kairos Shen is the Executive Director and Associate Professor of Practice at MIT's Center for Real Estate (CRE), where he oversees the Master of Science in Real Estate Development program. He teaches within an interdisciplinary curriculum, notably the “City Making” course, which integrates knowledge and research from design, city planning, public policy, finance, and real estate. His pedagogical aim is to equip students to tackle significant urban challenges such as social equity, housing affordability, climate resilience, and the revitalization of decaying infrastructure. Prior to his current role, Mr. Shen served as Director of Planning for the Boston Redevelopment Authority for thirteen years, where he was involved in shaping the city’s planning and economic development policies. His extensive engagement in Boston’s major planning initiatives from 1993 to 2015 includes significant projects like the development guidelines for the Rose Kennedy Greenway and the planning and implementation of the South Boston Waterfront Innovation District. He is recognized for his advocacy for design quality, diversity, and livability in cities.

Research Interests

Experience