Hello, I’m Dr Luana Parisi!
Architect · Academic · Researcher
I am an architect, academic and researcher with a passion for creating more inclusive, equitable and sustainable environments, both within the built environment and in the professional communities that shape it.
I am a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader at the University of East London, a RIBA Chartered member and Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA). I also co-chair the Athena Swan initiative within the School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering, and the MCAA GEDI Working Group, supporting efforts to advance gender equality and inclusion in higher education.
My professional journey has taken me across different countries and disciplines, from working as an architect in international practice to undertaking research in Europe and the United States. These experiences have shaped my interest in the relationship between people, places, innovation and sustainability, and reinforced my belief that meaningful progress requires diverse perspectives and opportunities for everyone to contribute.
Why I Founded Coffee & Research Beans
Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with inspiring women across academia and the architecture, engineering and construction industries. Yet I have also witnessed how gender stereotypes, unequal opportunities and the challenges of balancing professional and personal responsibilities can influence women’s career progression.
I founded Coffee & Research Beans to create a welcoming space where these experiences could be shared openly, achievements celebrated and challenges discussed without judgement.
I wanted to bring together women at different stages of their careers, from students and early-career professionals to established academics and industry leaders, encouraging conversations that might not otherwise take place.
What began as a series of informal discussions has developed into a wider research-led initiative connecting professional experiences with academic inquiry, mentoring and community engagement.
From Conversations to Research and Impact
For me, Coffee & Research Beans has always been about more than sharing stories.
I am particularly interested in understanding how gender inequalities influence professional identity, career progression, leadership opportunities and workplace experiences within the built environment.
Through research and collaboration, I aim to translate these experiences into evidence-informed recommendations that contribute to more inclusive workplaces and a socially sustainable built environment.
I believe sustainability is not only about how we design and construct our buildings and cities, but also about the people who contribute to shaping them.
Let’s Connect!
Have a story to share, a research idea to explore, or an opportunity to collaborate? I’d love to hear from you.
