Gonville & Caius College Fellow Dr Nicholas Simcik Arese has been appointed Chair of History and Theory at the Architectural Association in London. 

Nick will leave his roles at Caius and as Assistant Professor of Architecture and Urban Studies at the University of Cambridge this summer after five years in post.

“I’ve had the immense privilege of being around so many bright people within architecture and at Caius across so many disciplines,” Nick says.

“This chair position is a chance to steward a broad research culture that uses the built environment as a common thread. And it brings together all the vast experiences I’ve been so lucky to be surrounded by here in Cambridge.

“The Architectural Association has an amazing tradition of architectural practice, teaching and influence. It’s always had a longstanding friendship with Cambridge’s Department of Architecture.

“I look forward to continuing to cultivate that relationship; this is the beginning of a new relationship to Cambridge, approaching it from a different position.”

As Director of Studies in Architecture and a supervisor, Nick reflects fondly on his interactions with students and academics at Caius.

He adds: “The most important thing I will take with me is supervisions, one-on-one teaching. To be able to witness the transformation in people’s minds which can only come from having to bear account of yourself to a faculty member on a weekly basis is very powerful. It reframes education as coaching, where student and teacher are on the same team.

“That’s totally facilitated by Caius. The resources, time and space it affords to do that pedagogy is very powerful, and taking that learning outside of the classroom with gatherings like dining together is invaluable.”

Nick will also miss the architectural gems at Cambridge, particularly the view from his College office and one within Caius’ Old Courts.

“I’ve been so lucky to have an office on King’s Parade,” he says.

“After one of my first meals in College, I walked with another Fellow through from Gonville Court to Caius Court and they pointed out the view: the Gate of Honour, followed by the Cockerell Building, the University’s Old Schools and King’s College Chapel beyond.

“That condensation of history, all on top of each other in the moonlight. It’s not an individual building but an accumulation, and a view you can only find from Caius Court.”