Dr. Scott Aker

Biography

Scott Aker is a lecturer in the Undergraduate Architecture program at the University of Pennsylvania's Stuart Weitzman School of Design. An award-winning architect and educator, Aker's research practice focuses on social justice, inclusive design pedagogy, and trauma-informed approaches to architecture. His work emphasizes the use of architecture as a teaching tool, centering social issues and professional ethics in beginning design studios. As a registered architect and co-founder of the non-profit Institute of Architectural Research, Aker's research interests include the geometry of intersections in architecture and the themes of trauma and memory. His design work on memorial architecture developed from his Master of Science thesis, 'Design Action Victims Trauma', culminating in the design of June 5th Memorial Park in Philadelphia, which honors the victims of demolition. He was recognized with the AIA Tri-State Merit Award in 2021 for this project, reflecting his commitment to creating spaces that honor victims of trauma through design. In addition to his role at Penn, Aker has taught integrated product design to high school students, making architecture accessible to a broad range of learners.

Research Interests