MDX students showcase exciting research at Posters in Parliament

Modelled on Posters on the Hill in Washington DC, the annual event is designed to promote undergraduate research

Middlesex University students displayed their research in building design and an accessibility app for disabled people to politicians and policy makers in Westminster at a prestigious annual event called Posters in Parliament.

Yashvi Bhagat, Vicky Papadima and Joshua Palmer from MDX were among fifty students who had the amazing opportunity to reveal their study findings at Portcullis House in the House of Commons.

In their presentation poster, Vicky and Joshua, who are both third year Business Management students, showcased their Unity Application which will be aimed at people with disabilities or a health condition. The app provides an interactive public map showing users where they can find accessible facilities in their location such as lifts accessibility ramps, hearing aids, disabled toilets and car parking spaces. It is estimated that up to 24% of the UK population have a disability which equates to approximately 16 million individuals.

Speaking about Posters in Parliament, Vicky and Joshua said: "This was an inspiring experience for us and the Unity Application. We had the opportunity to share our project with students, academics and MPs, gaining invaluable connections and feedback. Our mission is empowering abilities in everyone and uniting the world together, which we can use our experience today to develop a better world for all.”

In her research project, Yashvi Bhagat, a third year Architectural Technology Student, designed a housing development based on the construction of Poland House in Stratford, east London.

To meet building regulations in accordance with fire safety compliance, her design included measures such as a minimum 7.5 metre distance to the nearest core, well-ventilated lobbies to prevent smoke buildup, and fire-resistant doors for enhanced protection. The design also features residential and commercial units at ground level, an underground parking system, and a landscaped open back garden to create a safe and welcoming environment for residents.

“The experience of showcasing the posters in Parliament was nothing short of surreal. As a student of architectural technology, I recognized this as a significant opportunity to display my work and engage with a diverse audience about its impact and relevance. I took great pride in presenting my designs and elaborating on the innovative concepts behind them. The interactions I had allowed me to receive valuable feedback and perspectives, enriching my understanding of the field.”

Yashvi Bhagat, a third year Architectural Technology Student

Inspired by the US version Posters on the Hill, the event is part of the British Conference of Undergraduate Research (BCUR), which is an open coalition of universities dedicated to encouraging undergraduate research.

Dr Ramona Trestian, an Associate Professor of Computing, at Middlesex University, said: "Attending Posters in Parliament was a truly inspiring experience! I was particularly impressed by the incredible diversity of research presented by undergraduates from universities across the UK. From energy and sustainability to mental health and disability, the range of important topics showcased highlights just how impactful student research can be in shaping our future."

Dr Homeira Shayesteh, Programme Leader for Architectural Technology, has been coordinating Posters in Parliament at the University for the previous seven years.

“It is such a special opportunity — bringing together talented undergraduate student researchers from across the UK to share their work directly with MPs and policymakers in Westminster,” said Dr Shayesteh. “At a time when the world is facing big challenges in energy, health, and sustainability, I was so impressed this year to see the creativity and passion of the next generation stepping up with fresh ideas and real solutions in particular our students Yashvi, Vicky and Joshua, welldone!”

Find out more about studying Business Management and Architectural Technology at Middlesex University.