Loughborough University is offering a fully funded PhD opportunity in the School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering (ABCE), focusing on urban heritage management and climate change adaptation in modernist urban areas. The project, supervised by Dr Monia Del Pinto and Prof. Ksenia Chmutina, aims to develop an actionable framework that integrates heritage conservation, climate resilience, and residents' wellbeing. The research will address the challenges of conserving twentieth-century urban heritage, particularly in the context of increasing climate-induced threats and social inequalities.

This interdisciplinary project will explore the built environment of the 20th century, including modernist cities and large-scale urban schemes, both within and outside the UK. It will analyze how these areas, often constructed for mass housing or industrial purposes, are now facing accelerated decay due to poor thermal performance and climate pressures. The project will also investigate how heritage designation and conservation can sometimes exacerbate social inequalities, leading to gentrification or exclusionary development policies.

The core objective is to establish a rigorous and equitable framework for integrating the conservation of vulnerable urban heritage with strategies that enhance socio-ecological resilience and the long-term wellbeing of resident communities. The research will develop tools for assessing the intersection of heritage significance, local hazard profiles, and socio-economic structures to create sustainable adaptation pathways.

Applicants should have at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as Architecture, Urban Planning, Heritage Studies, Geography, Disaster Studies, or Sociology. Ideal candidates will have an understanding of 20th-century urban history and architecture, familiarity with urban resilience and climate change adaptation, experience with GIS or spatial data analysis, knowledge of international heritage frameworks or policy-making, and experience with fieldwork or community engagement.

The position is fully funded for both UK and international students, covering tuition fees and providing a stipend for three years. The application deadline is 22 February 2026, with start dates in October 2026 or February 2027. For more information and to apply, visit the project page or contact the supervisors.