As we embark on the next five years, the Department of Environmental Design at the Faculty for the Built Environment is poised to lead innovative research initiatives that address pressing research challenges and shape sustainable built environments for the future. Our research vision is rooted in a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together experts from various fields to tackle complex issues at the intersection of design, sustainability, and building and environment science.
At the heart of our research agenda lies a commitment to fostering collaborations and partnerships both within the university community and beyond. We recognize the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in generating novel insights and solutions, and we will actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with other departments, research institutions, industry partners, and government agencies. These collaborations will not only enhance the impact and relevance of our research but also facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity-building initiatives.
To support our ambitious research goals, we will actively pursue funding opportunities at both the local and EU levels. We will leverage our expertise and track record of excellence to compete for research grants, fellowships, and other funding mechanisms that align with our research priorities. By securing external funding, we will be able to expand our research capacity, support graduate student research, and invest in cutting-edge infrastructure and equipment.
As part of our research vision, we will carry out targeted research campaigns focused on key thematic areas that will be outlined in this document. These campaigns will involve fieldwork, data collection, experimentation, and analysis, allowing us to generate new knowledge and insights that will be published through peer reviewed articles in conferences and journals world wide. In addition, our research can directly inform policy and practice.
Central to our research vision is the development of robust research infrastructure that enables high-quality research and innovation. The University of Malta has already invested in state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and computing resources relevant to our department that will support the diverse needs of our research teams.
Finally, building and nurturing research teams will be a priority for the Department of Environmental Design. We will recruit and retain top talent, fostering a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and excellence. We will provide support and resources to early-career researchers, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, and create opportunities for professional development and advancement.
In conclusion, our research vision for the Department of Environmental Design is ambitious, forward-thinking, and multidisciplinary. By fostering collaborations, securing funding, conducting research campaigns, building infrastructure, and cultivating research teams, we will position ourselves as leaders in the field of environmental design and make significant contributions to sustainability and resilience in the built environment.
Full details of the department’s research vision, research facilities, research interests and expertise is found in the following document
Department of Environmental Design Research vision [PDF] 2024-2028
Department Annual Reports (past 3 years)
EVD Annual Report 2021-2022 [PDF]
EVD Annual Report 2022-2023 [PDF]