UNIVERSITY NEWS LAST UPDATED : 02 AUGUST 2021
Birmingham City University has announced that experienced architect and educator Dr Matthew Jones has been appointed as its new Head of School for Architecture and Design.
Dr Jones has been named Head of School at the University’s School of Architecture and Design, moving from his position as Director of Technical Studies.
He is an architect and academic with expertise in making places and communities, and is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a Design Council Expert.
Having joined Birmingham City University in 2019, he played a key role in developing the University’s innovative Design for Future Living degree in collaboration with the educational charity MOBIE, which was founded by the renowned TV architect George Clarke.
Dr Jones replaces Professor Kevin Singh, who moved to the Manchester School of Architecture in 2020, and Interim Head of School Professor Hannah Vowles.
Speaking about his appointment Dr Matthew Jones said: “I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed asHead of School at Birmingham School of Architecture & Design.
“This is a School with a long and proud history and strong connections to the city and its creative community. Since starting at the School in 2019 I have been inspired by our talented multi-disciplinary staff, history of collaborative live projects and our inquisitive, diverse student body.
Dr Jones’ research has seen him examine the role of design in creating thriving towns and high streets; explore the development of rural towns and champion community-led place planning. This research culminated in his recent book, Transforming Towns Designing for Smaller Communities, published by RIBA Publishing in 2020.
Central to his academic expertise is the development of practice-led research, engaging students in live community-based projects, and embedding sustainability in the curriculum.
He will formally take up the position of Head of School from 1 August.