Universities, localizing SDG research and conflict: lessons from Al-Quds University in East Jerusalem

Purpose This paper examines how Al-Quds University, located in the complex and politically sensitive context of East Jerusalem, engages with the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its research agenda between 2017 and 2022. It analyzes the distribution of research themes, identifies gaps in SDG coverage and explores how academic production relates to local sustainability priorities. Design/methodology/approach The study adopts a PRISMA-informed approach to systematically identify, screen and analyze publications drawn from the university's annual research reports. A total of 1,099 publications were reviewed based on their titles. Eligible publications were coded against SDG targets and thematically analyzed to assess patterns of alignment and research orientation. Findings The findings indicate that only 7% of publications explicitly address sustainability challenges in East Jerusalem. Research outputs are concentrated in SDG 3 (good health and well-being) and SDG 4 (quality education), while several SDGs remain underrepresented. While this may suggest limited alignment with local sustainability priorities, no direct comparative dataset is available. Existing studies indicate that universities in conflict-affected or resource-constrained contexts often demonstrate uneven SDG alignment. In addition, the findings reflect a combination of institutional, disciplinary and practical factors, rather than a single explanatory condition. Research limitations/implications The study relies on publication titles as the primary unit of analysis, which may not fully capture the substantive focus of all research outputs. The analysis reflects research orientation rather than measurable impact. Practical implications The study proposes strengthening interdisciplinary SDG research, enhancing institutional monitoring systems and supporting coordinated research strategies aligned with local sustainability needs. Social implications Improved alignment between academic research and local sustainability challenges can enhance the role of universities in supporting urban resilience and community well-being in complex contexts. Originality/value This study provides one of the first systematic assessments of SDG-related research localization at the university level in a conflict-affected urban context, offering a transferable analytical framework for similar settings.