Coffee & Research Beans
Research. Conversations. Connections. Change.
Empowering women in the built environment through research, shared experiences and meaningful conversations.
Coffee & Research Beans is a research-led initiative founded by Dr Luana Parisi, Senior Lecturer at the University of East London.
Bringing together women from architecture, engineering, construction, academia and beyond, the initiative creates opportunities to share experiences, celebrate achievements, explore professional challenges and inspire positive change.
At its heart is a simple idea: meaningful conversations can lead to meaningful change.
Explore the Initiative | Join the Community
🔬 Research & Impact
Turning experiences into evidence.
Explore research on gender equality, career progression, professional experiences and social sustainability within the built environment.
Discover how research can inform practical recommendations for more inclusive workplaces and professional environments.
☕ Events & Conversations
Every story has the power to inspire.
Meet women from academia and industry who share their professional journeys, achievements, challenges and lessons learned.
From career development and leadership to wellbeing and work–life balance, each conversation offers a new perspective.
🤝 Community & Connections
Creating opportunities through connection.
Coffee & Research Beans encourages collaboration, mentoring and knowledge exchange among students, researchers, academics and industry professionals.
Whether you are beginning your career or bringing years of professional experience, your perspective matters.
In the Spotlight
Dr Alexandra Onisie | Let Me Be a Child
Engineering, leadership, parenting and the many dimensions of professional identity.
In November 2026, Coffee & Research Beans welcomed Dr Alexandra Onisie, engineer, project manager, coach and author of Let Me Be a Child.
The conversation provided an opportunity to explore the relationship between professional aspirations, parenting, wellbeing and the expectations placed on women, encouraging reflection on how individuals navigate different roles throughout their lives.
The Research Blend
Fresh perspectives, inspiring conversations and opportunities, delivered monthly.
