Co-producing Climate Resilience: Participatory Urban Interventions in Vulnerable Communities

About the Project

This project proposes to investigate the efficacy and processes of co-produced regenerative and climate-resilient interventions within vulnerable urban communities following climate-related disasters. Situated in contexts affected by extreme weather events, the research will explore how interdisciplinary collaboration and partnerships with local NGOs facilitate the development of tailored, sustainable solutions.

The study will examine how participatory workshops and capacity-building initiatives, mobilise local knowledges and empower citizens to address critical development challenges, including improving housing quality, public space, and reducing inequalities.

Focusing on outcomes like enhanced community capacity, improved livelihoods, social cohesion, and well-being, the research aims to understand the mechanisms by which co-production contributes to socially equitable economic development and welfare.

Ultimately, this research seeks to generate valuable, accessible knowledge to inform and enhance future climate-resilient interventions in vulnerable communities globally.

University of Reading:

The University of Reading, located west of London, England, is ranked at 172 globally, according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. 98% of research at the University is of international standing (REF 2021, combining the University’s world leading, internationally excellent and internationally recognised submissions). The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful, award-winning parkland, less than a 30-minute train ride to London Paddington and is approximately 30 miles from London Heathrow airport.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision and training in a number of different forms. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If you need to develop your academic English skills before you start your studies, then the University has an excellent Global Academy which can help with this.

Eligibility:

• Applicants should have a good bachelor’s degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) or equivalent)/master’s degree in Architecture, Planning or a strongly-related discipline.
• International applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional English courses that can help with meeting these requirements.

*The University of Reading is committed to a policy of equal opportunities and non-discriminatory treatment for all members of its community.*

How to apply:

Submit an application for a PhD in Architecture via our online application system

Further information:

Architecture PhD webpage

Enquiries:

Prof Cristina Cerulli email: c.cerulli@reading.ac.uk

Funding Notes

We welcome applications from self-funded students worldwide for this project.

If you are applying to an international funding scheme, we encourage you to get in contact as we may be able to support you in your application.