Andreas Papallas
Student spotlight details
After establishing a career as an architect in Cyprus, Andreas embarked on a DPhil in Sustainable Urban Development, which he pursued alongside professional practice. He has since completed his doctorate and has been involved in the establishment of a new Department of Sustainable Development in Cyprus.
'Before enrolling on the DPhil in Sustainable Development, and throughout my doctoral journey, I was practising as an architect in my home country, Cyprus, having returned after studies in architecture and urban design in the UK. Alongside professional practice, I became increasingly involved in research programmes at local universities, focusing on urban governance, sustainable development and planning policy. My engagement with the Scientific and Technical Chamber of Cyprus further sharpened my interest in the intersection between policymaking and the built environment, particularly in relation to social justice and education.
'What inspired me to pursue the DPhil was the programme’s strong interdisciplinary character, combined with a structure that allowed me to balance doctoral study with professional practice. Equally important was the opportunity to develop high-calibre research skills, enabling me to engage rigorously with complex urban challenges at the intersection of policy, planning and the built environment.
'One of the most challenging aspects of the DPhil was balancing part-time doctoral study with full-time professional and other commitments. Managing these parallel responsibilities was demanding on a practical level and required patience, understanding and sustained support from those closest to me.
'The most rewarding part of the experience was my time in Oxford itself; engaging with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives and having the rare opportunity to step away from everyday demands to focus intensively on a single intellectual pursuit. Particularly valuable were the regular and stimulating conversations with my supervisor, which consistently challenged my assumptions and sharpened my thinking.
'Since completing the DPhil, I have been involved in the establishment of a new Department of Sustainable Development in Cyprus, continuing to work at the interface of research, practice and policy.
'To anyone considering the DPhil in Sustainable Urban Development, I would say that it is a unique opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, engage deeply with complex challenges, and be intellectually stimulated by what Oxford has to offer – while bringing your own experiences and perspectives into the academic community.'
