The academy is in the development of a series of global interdisciplinary research work groups / networks that aim to address and progress specific issues relating to the development of psycho-socially supportive environments. It is envisaged that each research group will meet 4-6 times for weekend sessions over a two year period, completing its work in time for presentation at the academy’s bi-annual world congress, with the potential for progress updates at the pan-regional conferences during that time. The aim is for each group to establish through an international interdisciplinary network that includes researchers, practitioners and industry a program that will bring new thinking to an issue concerned with the design of the healing environment. Research groups might be issue led, for example, sustainability, briefing, design quality; sector led, for example, care at home, mental health, elderly care; or technology/materials led, for example, lighting, flooring, interiors.

Student research exchanges

The academy also sponsors international graduate student education and research exchanges in the fields of architecture, design, medicine and the healthcare and environmental sciences.

Current research programs

Health Promotion by Design in Elderly Care

 Health Supportive Design in Elderly Care Homes:

Swedish Examples and their implications on Korean Counterparts