Dr Sara Mahdizadeh

Profile

I am currently a Research Fellow at the Architecture and Urbanism Research Centre, School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, where I focus on projects related to inclusive playscapes and sustainable urban environments. Prior to this, I held Research Fellow positions at the University of Huddersfield, Nottingham Trent University (NTU), and worked as a Research Associate at the Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff University, UK. At NTU, I also taught as an Hourly Paid Lecturer, involving in modules such as Architecture in Context II and Interdisciplinary Design Studies.

I completed my Ph.D. at the School of Architecture (SSoA), University of Sheffield, UK, with research exploring the transformation of historical gardens in 20th-century Iran. During my Ph.D., I was honored to receive a pre-doctoral fellowship from Dumbarton Oaks, a trustee for Harvard University, USA, in recognition of my contributions to the study of cultural landscapes. From 2015 to 2022, I served as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Architecture and Urbanism, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad—ranked among the top three universities—where I held the role of course leader. With nearly nine years of teaching experience, I have led various modules, including Urban Design Studios, Research Methods, Landscape History, and Heritage Conservation.

My research spans diverse topics such as the impacts of microclimate on outdoor spaces, the intersection of cultural identity and urban design, and the conservation of cultural landscapes. I have published extensively in renowned international journals, including Nonlinear Dynamics, International Journal of Heritage Studies, Landscape Research, Landscape History, Architecture and Urbanism, and Architectural Conservation. I am passionate about fostering interdisciplinary learning, mentoring students, and bridging theoretical insights with practical applications in architecture and urban design.

Responsibilities

• Research

Research interests

I research the intersections of architecture, urban design, and cultural heritage, focusing on the socio-cultural and environmental dimensions of built environments. My work includes historical garden conservation, landscape transformation, and inclusive community design. I explore the impacts of socio-political contexts on heritage, the role of cultural identity in shaping urban spaces. With an emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity, I aim to bridge theory and practice to create resilient and culturally enriched urban futures. Recently, I have been involved in research in the UK on sustainable environments, with a focus on engagement in commuinty gardens and playscapes to promote inclusivity.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Architecture, Sheffield School of Architecture (SSoA), University of Sheffield, UK
• MPhil in Landscape Architecture, Department of Landscape, University of Sheffield, UK
• Master of Restoration of Historical Cities
• Bachelor of Architecture