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26 September 2025

4 mins

The academics at UoP London are well known for their dedication to student success- whether through engaging lectures, one-to-one tutoring, or facilitating visits from industry experts and guest speakers. But their commitment extends far beyond the classroom. In addition to shaping the next generation of professionals, UoP London academics are making significant contributions to research, professional practice, and the wider academic community. 

This September, Sam Wattuhewa, Course Leader for MSc Information Systems, presented his paper “Developing the Curriculum – Examples and Benefits of Cross-Disciplinarity” at the 30th UK Systems Society Conference in Portsmouth. Themed “Making Systems Work – Breaking Down the Silos”, the event brought together academics and practitioners to explore the connection between theory and practice in systems thinking. Sam’s session highlighted how cross-disciplinary approaches can help prepare graduates to tackle global challenges such as climate change, public health, and urban sustainability- showcasing UoP London’s contribution to the national conversation on curriculum innovation. 

Meanwhile, Whisper Maisiri, Course Leader in MSc Engineering Management, together with Amy Aisha Brown, Lecturer in Academic Skills, and Murat Ayhan, co-authored “Engineering Fair and Engaging Group Summative Assessments: A Data-Driven Approach for the Future Workforce.” Whisper presented this work at the World Engineering Education Forum & Global Engineering Deans Council (WEEF & GEDC 2025) in Daegu, South Korea- the world’s largest engineering education conference. The paper will be published in IEEE, highlighting UoP London’s growing global impact on innovative teaching and learning.

Adding to the list of achievements, Mehran Sepehiri, Course Leader for MSc in Construction Project Management, has returned from his attendance of the 41st Association of Researchers in Construction Management (ARCOM) Conference in Dundee. He presented a paper, co-authored with Murat Ayhan and Don Samuel, both Senior Lecturers in MSc Construction Project Management, and Mark Allinson, Academic Director, titled “Innovative Pedagogies in Construction Project Management Education: Integrating Active Blended Learning, Technology and Authentic Applications”, which drew on UoPL’s “London Way” initiative. His session sparked rich discussion among international scholars and practitioners, underlining the importance of innovation in teaching and learning for the future of construction management education.

Recently, Mehran also presented a research paper at the prestigious European Academy of Management (EURAM) Conference, held in Florence. His paper, “Exploring Institutional Pressures on Board of Directors’ Decisions in Adopting LCA Practices: A Qualitative Study in Sustainable Transport”, co-authored with Dr. Ariana Darvish of Reading University, was one of fewer than 100 papers selected for oral presentation from nearly 3,000 submissions. With over 1,500 participants in attendance, the conference provided a high-profile platform for his work. In addition to presenting, Mehran contributed to the academic community by serving as a reviewer for the conference.

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Whisper Maisiri presenting at WEEF & GEDC 2025 in South Korea

Amy Aisha Brown also recently presented collaborative work on responsible AI education at BERA 2025, the conference of the British Education Researchers Association. 

These diverse contributions reflect the vibrant research culture at UoP London and the commitment of staff to advancing knowledge, practice, and innovation on a global stage.