Course summary

PhD Architecture is based within the Manchester Architecture Research Group (MARG) , and looks beyond formal design to the complex processes and practices that run through the conception, representation, and use of built environments. We traverse the disciplinary boundaries of architecture, the humanities, and social sciences to engage with new transdisciplinary fields of architectural research, create new methodological approaches of architectural studies, and craft new conceptual languages to inform and influence architectural policy. Sitting within the School of Environment, Education and Development, and the Manchester Urban Institute, allows us to benefit from synergies with Education, Geography, Global Development and Planning, Property and Environmental Management, and several other disciplines. Through these connections, we have developed a distinctive expertise based on conceptual development and experimentation, methodological rigour, empirical attention, and a hands-on study of architectural practice, history and theory across various scales. We have specialist and research-active staff who provide a rich and stimulating environment for everyone. Colleagues have strong links with the architecture community in Manchester, nationally and internationally. Although we welcome applications on any subject, we are particularly keen to receive research proposals on topics including:

• architecture, art, media and events;

• architecture and climate; material and energy transition;

• architecture and the implications of an aging society;

• architectural curation and exhibitions;

• British Empire and postcolonial histories;

• design studies, techniques and media;

• environmental histories and environmental justice;

• everyday use and users;

• history of the architectural discipline and profession;

• housing studies;

• institutions of higher education, science and technology;

• political economy of architecture and politics of design;

• social practices and material politics of infrastructure and urbanism;

• urban infrastructure and global transformations.