Exploring innovative solutions for healthier, more sustainable buildings through our pump-priming research projects.
In early 2025, the Healthy Buildings Network awarded funding to four innovative research projects exploring different aspects of healthy building environments. These projects represent collaborative efforts across multiple disciplines.
Each project received £3,000 in funding to conduct exploratory research over a 6-month period. These pump-priming projects were selected for their innovative approaches, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and potential to generate preliminary data for larger funding applications.
With a clover living roof
This project explores the potential of clover (Trifolium spp.) as a versatile and sustainable option for living roofs. Going beyond traditional green roof benefits of insulation and carbon capture, the team investigates how clover’s hardy, nitrogen-fixing qualities can support pollinators, boost soil health, and even serve as a potential protein source. The project aims to create multifunctional rooftop spaces that enhance urban biodiversity, improve water retention, and promote circular-economy principles.
School of Food Science & Nutrition, University of Leeds (Lead Investigator)
Heugh Farm (Farming & crop development)
Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds
Faculty of Environment, University of Leeds
Indoor Temperature & Falls in Older Adults
THERMOAGE examines how exposure to cold or heat extremes indoors can affect posture, muscle function, and the risk of falling in older adults. By combining controlled climate chamber sessions, biomechanical monitoring, and occupant diaries, the study seeks to identify threshold indoor temperatures where balance and safety may be significantly compromised.
Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds
School of Civil Engineering
Evidence-Based Design
“We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us.” This project seeks to bridge the gap between compliance-focused housing standards and the real-world needs of residents. By integrating technical regulations with Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) data, we aim to embed occupant well-being, health, and happiness into the design process. Stakeholders—including developers, policymakers, architects, and residents—will collaborate to ensure new housing actively supports physical and mental well-being.
Head of Public Engagement with Research, University of Leeds
Developers, policymakers, local communities (TBD)
Passive Houses Study
Investigating how airtight, energy-efficient designs like Passive Houses influence indoor and outdoor air quality (I-O AQ). This project monitors pollutants such as NOx, CO₂, PM2.5, and ultrafine particles, correlating them with occupant behavior and ventilation practices.
SCAPE, University of Leeds
Civil Engineering, University of Leeds
Our research aims to improve indoor environments to reduce respiratory issues, allergies, and stress-related health problems, while enhancing overall wellbeing.
By developing more sustainable building practices and technologies, our projects help reduce energy consumption, carbon emissions, and resource use.
Our research emphasizes inclusive approaches that benefit diverse populations, with particular attention to vulnerable groups and underserved communities.
Pilot Research
Small-scale studies to test concepts and gather preliminary data
Expanded Research
Larger studies based on promising pilot results
Real-World Impact
Implementation of findings in policy and practice
We plan to launch our next round of pump-priming research funding in October 2025. Like our initial round, projects will receive £3,000 in funding and should address one or more aspects of healthy buildings research.
We especially encourage:
October 2025
Call for proposals opens
November 2025
Application deadline
January 2026
Projects begin
We also help connect our members with external funding opportunities in healthy buildings research. Join our network to receive regular updates on grants from agencies like UKRI, Innovate UK, and the Wellcome Trust.
Join Our NetworkInterested in learning more about our projects or exploring potential collaborations? Connect with our research teams directly.
Reach out to our network directors with questions about projects or funding opportunities.
healthy_buildings_network@leeds.ac.ukAttend our regular seminars to meet researchers and discuss ongoing projects.
View Upcoming EventsBecome part of our growing network of researchers, practitioners, and innovators working together to create healthier, more sustainable built environments.