Joana Rafael is an architect and researcher working on ecological issues related to pollution and contamination in buildings and territories, with a particular interest in the material conditions of construction and environmental contamination. Her research investigates the materiality and limits of physical infrastructures in relation to Earth systems, as well as human–nature relations mediated by dynamics of human impact, with particular attention to radiological contamination. In parallel, she develops a practice of collaboration with artists, research and writing, as well as consultancy on projects in the fields of architecture, art, and ecology. Joana has taught courses related to Contemporary Culture at institutions including ESAP, ISCE Douro, Central Saint Martins, and the University for the Creative Arts. She is a member of CEGOT and CEAA, and co-founder of REFINERY BOARD. Joana holds a Master’s degree in Architecture and Urban Culture from Metropolis, as well as a Master’s in Research Architecture and a PhD in Visual Culture from Goldsmiths, University of London. She also obtained a specialization certificate in Healthier Materials and Sustainable Construction from Parsons School of Design. She is currently completing a Master’s in Visual Arts Education. Alongside her academic work, Joana is a farmer.

Urgeiriça

Miners District and the Nuclear Mining Landscape
On Radioactive Extraction, Decontamination, and the Enduring Challenges of Urgeiriça
This post-doctoral research delves into the history and ongoing implications of the radium and uranium extraction and decontamination industries in the former Urgeiriça Mining Area, the largest radioactive materials mining complex in Portugal. The study aims to chronicle the development, functions, and aesthetics of the complex and its residential areas, providing a comprehensive analysis of their history and architecture from inception to the present day. It explores the socio-economic and environmental impacts of the mining activities, the remediation efforts for radioactively contaminated houses, and the resilience of the local inhabitants. Employing multidisciplinary methods, this research seeks to understand the evolution of Urgeiriça as both a residential and industrial space, its significance as cultural heritage, and its environmental management practices. Ultimately, the study contributes new perspectives on rural (post-)industrial contexts and their ongoing environmental negotiations.