Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Participate
Co-led by Dr Marc Fabri, Dr Mary Ikoniadou and Dr Anne Schiffer
The PARTICIPATE research cluster fosters interdisciplinary research to promote equitable, just, and inclusive futures. It is the largest cluster in the School of Arts, with more than 20 members from all subject areas. We work in ways that are:
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Collaborative
Bridging different bodies of knowledge through interdisciplinary and, participatory approaches, often by working in partnership with civil society and professional organisations
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Interdisciplinary
Developing dialogues across and within existing disciplinary frameworks, theories and methodologies through historical and contemporary approaches
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Empowering
Using methods and approaches that build agency and capacity of grassroots actors as well as researchers and students involved
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Supportive
Nurturing the talents of early-career researchers and PhD students in the cluster through sharing of good research practice, involvement in joint projects and providing constructive feedback on each other's work
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Empathic
Understanding lived experiences despite gendered, developmental and intersectional differences
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People-centred
Enhancing wellbeing and quality of life through improved equity, justice and inclusion
The cluster brings together researchers across a broad range of disciplines, united by a commitment to participatory and socially engaged practice. We work in partnership with communities, artists, professional organisations and policymakers, employing methods that build agency and capacity among grassroots actors, researchers, and students alike.
As a cluster, we particularly want to support researcher development. We provide a supportive environment through regular writing sessions, lunchtime talks, one-to-one mentoring, and seed funding for projects and retreats - valuable for early-career researchers and doctoral students.
Dr Anne Schiffer
Dr Anne Schiffer is a Reader in the School of Arts at Leeds Beckett University. She uses people-centred design research for equitable and just access to energy and water, collaborating with communities, local and international organisations.
Dr Marc Fabri
Marc is Reader in Participatory Design. He focuses on the design of technology that enables people to overcome challenges, move towards positive behaviour, and generally live better lives. His specific research interest is the participatory design of enabling technology.
