To:

ETH Zurich
Human Resources
CH-8092 Zrich
Attention: Mr. Olivier Meyrat

Patras 20. 03. 2016

Dear Sir,

I am writing in response to the advertised PhD vacancy in the Marie Skodowska-Curie ITN:
DCOMM: ESR13: Deictic communication in architectural and urban design, ETH Zurich, in
order to express my interest.
Human factor can be a dynamic implement of affecting the process of urban and
architectural design and also a significant parameter taken into consideration in the research
work I am familiarized with. The on-site observation, the collection of information through
interviews but also through the classification of traces offered by an analysed area were
practices that I have followed since my first years of architectural studies.
For the aforementioned reason, I am particularly stimulated to expand my knowledge into
this field and pursue advanced studies in different methods of deictic communication,
provided in the doctoral program that you suggest. After completing this PhD program, I am
planning to continue my research in the field of specific visual theories affecting the urban
design, by investigating at the same time the social impact to which the application of these
theories can lead. This program would help me to start my career as faculty member
specialized in the issues mentioned above.
Referring to my qualifications, I hold a degree in Architecture Engineering from the
Department of architecture, University of Patras, Greece and a Postgraduate Specialization
Diploma (MSc) in Architectural Design from the Department of Architecture, University of
Thessaly, Greece. In addition, I was granted an Erasmus scholarship during my fourth year of
undergraduate studies in cole Nationale Suprieure d'Architecture, Saint-Etienne, France.
During my undergraduate studies, I partly focused on historical and theoretical issues of
urban design which triggered my interest on this field. Moreover, the rest of syllabus
involved courses that motivated me to use several ways of design and visual representation
of projects, as well as theoretical approaches of similar issues. I opted for urban designing
courses in order to familiarize myself with relevant planning methods. As for my thesis which
was realized under the directions of prof. Panayotis Pangalos and prof. Elias
Constantopoulos, it is divided into two parts, the first of which examined the parameter of
duration in architecture according to function and ideological facts. The second part dealt
with the design of new train stops of the suburban railroad of the city of Patras, Greece as
well as their surroundings.
As for my postgraduate studies, I chose to extend my knowledge in the wide field of
architectural design, in the University of Thessaly. The courses involved design studios of
small and large scale and theoretical seminars. Among the optional courses, I chose to

emphasize in theories for the postmodern city and in contemporary art and architecture
practices. During these courses I investigated means of analyzing the spatial syntax of an
urban tissue and the role of architect as archiver that explores architectural elements as
mechanisms in the city. Thus, my masters dissertation, which was supervised by prof. Lois
Papadopoulos, is related to the research on the Jewish Cemetery of Ioannina, Greece, and
its influence to the city as an urban factor. The dissertation extended to issues such as the
sacred in architecture, the notion of profanation and politics of fatality management. I
graduated from this faculty with the third (3rd) highest score among ten students at my
specialization.
In my current position, the past two years I have participated in a number of exhibitions, I
have volunteered as an exhibition curator and organizer and as a vital member of the
organizational committee of Citylab Workshops in Patras, Greece. These annual national
conferences/workshops host lectures of renowned Greek architects and I was honored to
have participated with my own lecture during last Octobers conference. In addition, I was
occupied as a graphic designer in collaboration with A.D.E.P. (Municipal Business
Development Service of Patras) on Joy Welcult European program, on the project of
Ecomuseum map of suburban area of Patras. These positions offered me high collaborative
skills and positive spirit in activities of the team. My communication skills have greatly
developed both through my work experience and through my degrees.
As an addition to all the previously mentioned information, I want to underline my personal
motivation, my methodic way of work and my enthusiasm. I am convinced that with hard
work and commitment, I will succeed in every aspect, positively influencing my peers and
exchanging experiences with my fellow researchers and collaborators.
Should you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for
considering my application, and I look forward to your favorable reply.

Yours sincerely,
Sarra Matsa