My Masters of Research explored housing strategies in Western and Eastern contexts, which was expanded during my PhD studies, focusing on contextualising housing formation and transformation in North Africa. Being part of the Cluster for Research in Architecture and Urbanism of Cities in the Global South (CRAUCGS) enhanced my knowledge on important issues in the global south and broadened my theoretical understanding of concepts related to housing development. Within the Cluster and through various engagement mechanism, my fellow PhD students and I presented our works to each other, shared views, and discussed concerns and difficulties, all under the attentive supervision of Prof. Ashraf Salama, which helped us to develop a sound knowledge of our research subjects and research methods. His supervision and mentorship, throughout my research and beyond, was second to none.
During my PhD studies, I was also given the opportunity to assist in teaching activities in the Architecture department, especially as part of the option class on human environment interactions. My involvement in these activities further enhanced my critical and inquisitive skills and developed my ability to evaluate written works and design proposals in a timely manner.
As a research associate at the Department of Architecture, I am currently working with Dr David Grierson on Nepal Schools Project, which aligns with the mission of “Strathclyde Engineering for Development”. Over the course of my research at Strathclyde, I have had great opportunities to publish in peer reviewed journals, contribute chapters to books, and present at international and national conferences. Currently, I am working on a book on housing and urban transformations in Tripoli, Libya, which will be published as part of the Routledge Series of Architecture and Urbanism in the Global South.
My journey at Strathclyde University is not only about facilities, courses, and awards, it is about challenges and opportunities that only come through thoughtful, talented, friendly, and outstanding people.
I wholeheartedly encourage you to join our PhD programme. You will have incomparable lifetime research and academic experience.