A Biophilic design approach to UN SDG 3 and Trauma Informed Design.

Summary

This PhD will contrast the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal, 3 – Good Health and Wellbeing (UN SDG 3) with Biophilic, Trauma Informed Design (TID).

At this time of climate collapse, architecture has a role to play in designing Trauma Informed Environments with a three-fold purpose. To better understand and deliver TID environments which reflect UN SDG 3 ideals, evaluate how biophilia can support this delivery and understand how the phenomenology embodied consciousness supports healing.

Biophilic principles are not new or unique, however they have not been adequately investigated in direct relation to a holistic approach to TID concepts. Biophilic design, supports the notion that human health, wellbeing and phycological comfort can be supported through close contact with nature based environments. This point of view, acknowledges that humans evolved in correspondence with nature, that they are part of nature, and not separate from nature. As a consequence biophilic defined TID may initiate new perspectives on health and wellbeing.

Interpretation of UN SDG 3 seeks to develop an ethical immersion of nature in architectural environments. This includes species rich nature, nature views, nature materials and embedded sensory experience of light, air, and water in relation to TID.

Research suggests that nature environments are seen to support restorative healing in those people who experience them, both in a physical, psychological, and emotional wellbeing. Biophysically attuned environments appear more likely to support and facilitate innate positive human embodied experience. This presents scope for evaluating biophilia as a key driver in TID.

The natural correspondence between phenomenological sense experience and latent human biological memory may provide a scaffold to define new pathways for better understanding TID. The UN SDG 3 has not to date been fully appraised or tested in relation to TID, therefore space exists for scoping this phenomenological interpretation of biophilic design.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Research proposal of 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.