Dr Athina Moustaka

School of Science, Engineering & Environment

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Contact Details

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Current positions

Senior Lecturer in Architecture

Biography

Athena Moustaka is a Chartered Architect and Senior Lecturer with a transdisciplinary focus on the intersection of architecture, cultural heritage, urbanism, and neuroscience. Holding degrees in Engineering and Architecture, as well as a PhD in Architectural Humanities, her diverse training enables interdisciplinary research. Athena serves as a member of the RIBA validation board, contributing to the accreditation of Schools of Architecture across the world. As a UKRI Talent Peer Review College member, she evaluates research proposals and supports talent development in her field. Additionally, she plays a pivotal role as the University of Salford’s Environment Co-Lead for REF 2028 UOA 13 (Architecture, Built Environment and Planning). Athena actively contributes to the academic community through her participation in the University's Programme Approval and Review panel and the Equity in the Workplace Group, addressing issues such as EDI and gender pay gap. Her commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering inclusivity underscores her dedication to academia and research excellence.
Athena is a Chartered Archtect with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB). She is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and amember of the Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture.

Areas of Research

Athena Moustaka's research interests lie at the intersection of architecture, education, heritage conservation, digital technologies, and neuroscience. Her work in the heritage of the MENA region has a particular focus on leveraging digital innovations for the preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage and traditional architecture. Her work encompasses topics such as Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM), smart planning conservation of heritage cities, and the development of digital conservation handbooks. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, she explores the role of digital tools in transforming architectural practices and urban landscapes, aiming to advance knowledge and practice in heritage conservation and urban planning. Additionally, her research extends to the intersection of neuroscience and architecture, investigating how insights from neuroscience can inform architectural education and design. With a diverse portfolio of publications spanning from digital applications in archaeology to reimagining urban public spaces, Athena's research contributes to shaping sustainable and inclusive built environments for future generations.

Areas of Supervision

Digital Heritage Conservation Strategies, Design Development and AI, Urban Morphology and AI, Neuroarchitectural Studies, Urban Heritage Preservation, Architectural Pedagogy, Sustainable Urban Regeneration, Material Agency in Contemporary Architectural Practice, Urban Spatial Configuration and Public Realm Enhancement

Qualifications and Recognitions Publications

Qualifications and Recognitions

Qualifications

  • Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice

    2018 - 2019

  • PhD in Architecture

    2012 - 2017

  • MSc (Integrated) Architecture

    2002 - 2005

  • MSc Environmental Design of Buildings

    2000 - 2001

  • BEng Architectural Engineering

    1997 - 2000

Recognitions

  • Member UKRI peer talent reviewer

  • RIBA Validation Board Panel member

Publications

Publications

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