Rachel Kirk

Biography

Following completion of my DPhil at the Centre for Housing Policy, University of York, I joined Northumbria University in 1995 as a researcher and then as a lecturer. Rachel -Kirk ,-Northumbria -University -webI have contributed to a range of programmes, including undergraduate and postgraduate Housing courses. Currently most of my teaching is within the MSc Surveying programme (distance learning) where I am the module tutor for the dissertation module as well as one of the Housing pathway modules. I also teach on a Housing option delivered to Geography students. Housing policy provides a varied and dynamic focus for my research and teaching interests. Recent research has included exploring the strategic decision making of housing associations as they operate in a rapidly changing and challenging environment.

Research Interest

While at Northumbria University I have carried out research into youth homelessness, tenant involvement, area regeneration, and the housing and support needs of teenage parents, the changing nature of housing management and housing education, and the student experience of distance learning. Most recently, my research has focused on the strategic decision making of housing associations in relation to diversifying into market renting activity. I have worked on research projects funded externally – including Government, RICS Research Trust and local housing agencies.