Philip Black

Philip Black is a Senior Lecturer in Urban Design at the University of Manchester, serving as Director of the Manchester Urban Design LAB (MUD-Lab) and Programme Director for the MSc Urban Design and International Planning. He holds roles in the School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED), specifically within the Planning and Environmental Management department. His research focuses on design control, urban design processes, mobility, and urban quality evaluation, with a strong emphasis on real-world impact through applied projects.

Black’s career bridges academia and practice, including prior work at architectural firm HBD Architects Ltd. He leads funded projects such as 'Urban Design and Cycling in Manchester' and collaborates internationally through initiatives like the Arab Academy-funded 'Urban Design Process and Methods'. His educational background includes a PhD from Queen’s University Belfast (2012) on design controller perceptions, complemented by professional certifications in academic practice and research management.

MUD-Lab, established in 2020, serves as a global platform for urban design innovation, offering cutting-edge research, training, and industry engagement. Black’s work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in education and sustainable cities. His publications explore topics like design governance, landscape integration, and culturally sensitive urban development, reflecting a commitment to advancing both theoretical and practical dimensions of urban design.