Ahmed Ba Tis's Summer of Dissertation Research

"My name is Ahmed Ba Tis, and I am a Ph.D. candidate in the College of Architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) in Chicago. My research centers on urban planning challenges in contexts of crisis and displacement, including post-war reconstruction, the upgrading of informal settlements, and — most recently — temporary housing solutions for displaced populations. I am driven by a commitment to designing environments that restore dignity and stability for communities facing conflict, disaster, and displacement.

This summer, I have been focused on advancing my dissertation research under the guidance of my advisor, Dr. Youngjin Hwang, working through the core questions and framework that will shape my doctoral contribution. Alongside this, I have been preparing a paper for the 2027 ARCC International Conference, set to take place next January, which allows me to share early findings from this research with the broader architecture and planning community.

Outside of my academic work, I make time to recharge with my family — playing soccer together, heading to the beach, and having the occasional barbecue. These moments help me stay grounded and maintain balance while immersed in the demands of doctoral research."

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