Explore a critical knowledge pathway for achieving a sustainable future in an urbanizing world through this 20-minute AGU conference talk. Delve into the profound impacts of contemporary urbanization on global environmental change and the challenges it presents for human wellbeing. Examine initial outcomes from a 2014 NSF/Future Earth-funded initiative aimed at developing an interdisciplinary urban research framework. Discover key knowledge gaps, research questions, and opportunities for conceptual and methodological advancements in urban sustainability. Learn about operational mechanisms necessary for successful interdisciplinary urban projects within the Future Earth context. Gain insights into changing scientific approaches, urban hubs, transitions, and synthesis efforts in addressing global urban development challenges.