Shirin Hejazi
Newcastle upon Tyne,United Kingdom
Summary
I am committed to creating engaging and inclusive learning environments where we all can critically connect architectural theory to contemporary social realities that we live in. With formal training in university teaching (ILTHE, PGCert in Research Training) and experience as a researcher, journal editor, urban planning advisor, and volunteer teacher and mentor, I bring communication skills and the ability to guide discussions around complex and sensitive topics in architecture and urbanism. My background in architectural history, combined with experience in publication and community building, allows me to support diverse student perspectives. I am passionate about teaching as a reciprocal process that deepens learning for both students and educators, particularly in exploring how built environments shape and reflect sociopolitical dynamics.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work history
Co-Founder, Editor, and Voluntary Main-Advisor
Koubeh.com
2016.09 - 2023.06
- Company Overview: Online Platform of Critical Architectural and Urban Studies
- Published articles, edited four special issues (PDF), and grew social media following to 2K+.
- Collaborated with Iranian Ministry of Urban Development on architectural talks, organising ~10 lectures.
- Mentored junior writers, providing constructive feedback to improve skills and foster professional growth.
Member of the Editorial Board
Iran Planning and Architecture Research Centre
Tehran
2021.01 - 2022.11
- Developed editorial strategies and structured thematic sections for journal issues.
- Identified and commissioned authors for specialised architectural topics.
- Conducted interviews with professionals, activists, and academics to enrich featured articles.
- Led editorial initiatives to enhance publication quality and relevance.
- Collaborated with authors to develop coherent narratives and ensure adherence to guidelines.
Advisor of Urban Planning and Architecture Committee
Tehran City Council
Tehran
2020.03 - 2021.10
- Authored reports on key urban planning issues in Tehran.
- Advised Tehran City Council members on bills and plans.
- Attended weekly committee meetings with City Council members.
- Monitored and provided recommendations on the Tehran Municipality.
Researcher
Nazar Research Centre
Tehran
2018.08 - 2020.03
- Conducted interviews, edited, and published critical architecture and urban environment texts on Nazaronline.ir.
- Edited two special issues of Manzar Journal to enhance editorial quality.
- Engaged in the Tehran Master Plan and Deteriorated Areas Research Groups to contribute to urban studies.
- Co-published two books based on insights from research group field trips.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy - Architecture
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne 2023.09 -
Postgraduate Certificate - Research Training
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne 2023.09 - 2024.06
MA - Architectural Studies of Iran
Tehran University
Tehran, Iran 2015.09 - 2018.09
Introduction to Learning and Teaching (ILTHE) -
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne 2023.11 -
BA - Architecture
Azad University of Mashhad
Mashhad, Iran 2009.09 - 2014.07
Skills
- Team leadership and research coordination
- Academic evaluation and peer review
- Theoretical and empirical analysis
- Event planning and project management
- Community development and networking
- Digital literacy and adaptability
Accomplishments
Tehran University Full Merit Scholarship (2015)
Newcastle University Forshaw Award (2023)
Timeline
Introduction to Learning and Teaching (ILTHE) -
Newcastle University
2023.11 -
Doctor of Philosophy - Architecture
Newcastle University
2023.09 -
Postgraduate Certificate - Research Training
Newcastle University
2023.09 - 2024.06
Member of the Editorial Board
Iran Planning and Architecture Research Centre
2021.01 - 2022.11
Advisor of Urban Planning and Architecture Committee
Tehran City Council
2020.03 - 2021.10
Researcher
Nazar Research Centre
2018.08 - 2020.03
Co-Founder, Editor, and Voluntary Main-Advisor
Koubeh.com
2016.09 - 2023.06
MA - Architectural Studies of Iran
Tehran University
2015.09 - 2018.09
BA - Architecture
Azad University of Mashhad
2009.09 - 2014.07