Gensler announced architect Julian Gitsham has been appointed to bolster its Sciences offering, leading new areas of practice connecting education and science in the UK. With over 35 years of experience, Julian has delivered world leading projects, with a particular focus on higher education and scientific innovation over the past 15 years. Julian’s appointment marks a new milestone for the firm’s education and sciences practice as it continues to diversify its portfolio across the UK and globally. 

With more than 20 award-winning projects under his belt, Julian brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Gensler, having worked in the UK, Europe, Asia, Middle East, North Africa and Australia. Recent projects include the University of Warwick STEM Grand Challenge; University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School; University of Edinburgh Usher Institute for Population Health Sciences; The American University in Cairo Learning Landscape Masterplan; and Queen's University Belfast Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre. 

Richard Harrison, Co-Managing Director, Principal at Gensler, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Julian Gitsham to Gensler. His deep expertise and passion for the intersection of education, science, and design will be invaluable as we continue to expand our impact in the UK. With his leadership, we look forward to advancing innovative, research-driven solutions that will shape the cities of tomorrow.”

Julian Gitsham’s appointment presents an opportunity for Gensler to expand its UK focus on education and science, as the intersection between the two fields continues to evolve. As noted in Gensler’s 2025 Design Forecast, which features 5 key trends that will shape the built environment this year, the industry is expected to accelerate new automated manufacturing models which will allow the industry to scale more rapidly. Julian’s expertise will be essential as Gensler collaborates with leading organisations to drive scientific and academic innovation. 

Julian Gitsham, Education and Sciences Leader at Gensler, said: “I am delighted to join Gensler to lead the growth of education and science in the UK. This is an exciting opportunity to bridge the gap between both fields, and to contribute to the development of an ecosystem that fosters innovation. I look forward to collaborating with our talented teams to deliver groundbreaking projects that contribute to the growth and sustainability of urban environments.”

Julian is passionate about the interrelation between education and science and the vital role they play in people’s lives. As a senior leader in the industry, he has held several roles at public and private creative design practices including as Principal and Global Education & Science Leader at Hassell. Julian is Chair of the Board of Trustees at Turn End Trust and has recently been appointed to the Industry Advisory Board for Architecture at the University of Brighton’s School of Architecture, Technology and Engineering.