5 Minutes with... Dr Suha Jaradat, Associate professor of Architectural Technology
Dr Suha Jaradat leads the development of postgraduate, undergraduate and graduate apprenticeship programmes across a range of design and built environment disciplines. In 2024 she was shortlisted for the Times Higher Education (THE) ‘Most Innovative Teacher of the Year’ award. Strategic positions have included Head of Construction and co-Lead of the Centre for Mind, Creativity and Environment research.
When did you join Edinburgh Napier and what were your aspirations?
I joined in 2018 and aspired to lead the architectural technology programmes, enhance student experience and develop my career as a researcher, educator and leader.
What’s the best part of your job?
All of it! Engaging with research related to architecture and design; leadership and management; creating exceptional learning activities; interactions with external partners; and supporting and empowering students and colleagues.
Tell us a little about revolutionising academic practices through your innovative teaching and leadership in curriculum development.
I am passionate about developing work-based, experiential learning and creating strong links with industry to prepare students for the workplace. I drove the internationalising of the curricula and have promoted interdisciplinary practices in teaching and research to support the student experience.
Could you explain a little about pioneering the UK’s first work-based learning Graduate Apprenticeship programme in Architectural Technology.
This has been a particular highlight of my career. It was the first of its kind to be accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). The programme has enhanced employability and attracted a diverse student body, with over 30% being female students and 60% mature students. For me, it’s about creating more diverse and inclusive educational opportunities and facilitating access to higher education.
Why does promoting diversity in construction matter to you?
I have first-hand experience of how challenging the construction industry can be. Also when I moved to Edinburgh I became a minority in more ways than one, unable to practice as an ‘architect’ in the UK with my Jordanian qualification. Starting at the University I found the Construction group was not diverse; I’ve worked to successfully recruit more staff from black and ethnic minorities and improve gender equality.
What are you watching?
‘Race across the World’ is a favourite TV show as I like competitions, travelling, exploring new places, architecture, and culture.
What are you listening to?
I really enjoy Fairuz, who is an iconic Lebanese singer and one of the most celebrated in the Arab world; also ‘Wake up and Win’ on the radio while I’m driving to work.
What would you like to learn?
New languages including sign language which I find fascinating.
What do you wish you were better at?
Playing musical instruments such as the piano.
If you could be anywhere, where would you like to be?
In Space. ‘Suha’ is the name of a star in Arabic, so that’s where I belong!
Tell us a surprising fact about yourself.
When I first applied to university in Jordan, I didn’t even consider engineering, until my uncle, an engineer, convinced me to do so. I chose architectural engineering without knowing what it involved!