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Achim MengesView profile

Research Professor

• Computational Design
• Robotic Construction
• Biomimetic Architecture
• +5 more

Achim Menges is a Research Professor and Max Planck Fellow at the University of Stuttgart, where he directs the Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD). His work bridges architecture, engineering, and computational design, with a focus on developing innovative construction methods and materials. Menges leads the Cluster of Excellence IntCDC: Integrative Computational Design and Construction for Architecture, a major research initiative funded by the German Research Foundation. Menges' research centers on computational design, robotic construction, and biomimetic architecture, with particular emphasis on timber construction, adaptive building systems, and digital fabrication. His work integrates principles from bionics to create responsive, sustainable building systems that adapt to environmental conditions. Notable projects include the BUGA Wood Pavilion (2019), Urbach Tower, BUGA Fibre Pavilion, and the livMatS Biomimetic Shell, all demonstrating his commitment to material innovation and sustainable construction practices. His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on advancing timber construction techniques, developing bio-inspired responsive systems, and implementing robotic fabrication processes. The research shows a clear trajectory toward more sustainable, resource-efficient building methods that integrate digital design with physical construction processes. Menges' work increasingly addresses multi-story timber systems and circular construction principles. Bauwende Prize der Universität Stuttgart 2025 Menges leads numerous research initiatives through the Cluster of Excellence IntCDC, securing significant funding for projects exploring computational design and robotic construction. His work involves extensive collaboration with industry partners and interdisciplinary research teams. Menges directs the ICD research laboratory, which focuses on developing novel computational design methods, robotic fabrication processes, and innovative material systems for architecture. The institute maintains strong partnerships with industry leaders in construction technology and materials science, facilitating the translation of research into practical applications.

Achim MengesView profile

Professor

• Sustainable Architecture
• Robotic Fabrication
• Biomimetic Design
• +3 more

Prof. Achim Menges is a leading academic and researcher in architecture and computational design at the University of Stuttgart. As Director of the Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), he focuses on interdisciplinary research into sustainable, digitally planned, and robotically manufactured building systems. He is renowned for pioneering projects like the livMatS Pavilion, a biomimetic structure made of robotically wound flax fibers, and for leading the IntCDC Excellence Cluster, Germany's only architecture-focused research consortium. His work integrates computational methods, material innovation, and robotic fabrication to advance resource-efficient and future-proof architectural practices. Research Interests: Menges explores biomimetic design, robotic fabrication, sustainable timber engineering, and circular construction systems. His projects often involve cross-disciplinary collaboration, such as with biologists from the University of Freiburg for the livMatS Pavilion. His methodologies emphasize open-ended experimentation and foundational insights to transform architectural practice. Awards: 2023 Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize (Germany’s top research honor) Labs/Teams: Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), IntCDC Excellence Cluster Grants/Projects: Leibniz Prize funding ($2.5M), livMatS Pavilion, HYGROSHELL, Terra Incognita His publications span robotic construction workflows, bio-inspired materials, and collaborative human-robot systems, reflecting a commitment to bridging computational design, engineering, and fabrication for scalable, sustainable outcomes.

Stefan RichterView profile

Professor

• Crustacean Evolutionary Morphology
• Phylogenetic Systematics
• Comparative Neuroanatomy
• +3 more

Prof. Dr. Stefan Richter is a faculty member at the University of Rostock , affiliated with the Institute of Biosciences under the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences . His research focuses on General and Special Zoology , with significant contributions to crustacean morphology, phylogenetic systematics, neuroanatomy, and evolutionary biology. Research Interests : Crustacean evolutionary morphology, phylogenetic methodologies, comparative neuroanatomy, biogeography, and evolutionary developmental biology. Contact : Universitätsplatz 2, 18055 Rostock, Germany | Tel: +49 381 / 498-6260 | Email: stefan.richter@uni-rostock.de His work explores the interplay between morphological adaptation, genetic variation, and evolutionary constraints across diverse crustacean groups, including decapods, branchiopods, and malacostracans. Recent studies examine limb asymmetry in hermit crabs, compound eye evolution in prawns, and mitochondrial genomic insights into mountain shrimps. Richter actively contributes to debates on homology concepts and character dependency frameworks in phylogenetic analysis. Key publication trends include: Evolutionary Morphology of crustacean appendages (maxillipeds, chelae, thoracopods) Phylogenomics of Malacostraca and Branchiopoda Neuroanatomical Studies in Cephalocarida and Mystacocarida Biogeographical Investigations of Tasmanian freshwater species Methodological Advances in character dependency analysis Debates on homology, synapomorphy, and evolutionary concepts He serves on editorial boards and participates in academic governance, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding crustacean evolution and its broader implications for arthropod systematics.

Simon TremlView profile

Researcher

• Computational Design
• Robotic Fabrication
• Sustainable Timber Construction
• +3 more

Simon Treml is a doctoral researcher and research associate at the Institute of Computational Design and Construction (ICD) at the University of Stuttgart , focusing on resource-efficient timber building systems that integrate computational design and robotic fabrication. He is part of the Cluster of Excellence IntCDC and works on the Multi-Storey Wood Building System project. Education : B.Sc. in Architecture (Technical University of Vienna), M.A. and M.Sc. in Architecture and Integrative Technologies (State Academy of Art and Design Stuttgart, University of Stuttgart). Research : Explores computational methods for timber construction, including lifecycle assessments and robotic manufacturing innovations. Teaching : Advised ITECH Master thesis on finite element simulation of timber systems and contributed to studio advising at State Academy of Art and Design Stuttgart. Presentations : Delivered lectures on topics like livMatS Biomimetic Shell and Robotic Fabrication of Segmented Timber Shells at international conferences. Professional : Registered architect in Germany with prior experience in Austria and Germany.

Tobias SchwinnView profile

Researcher

• Agent-based modeling
• Robotic fabrication
• Segmented shell structures
• +4 more

Tobias Schwinn is a Senior Researcher at the Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD) at the University of Stuttgart, Germany. His work focuses on integrating agent-based modeling , robotic fabrication , and computational design for segmented shell structures and timber architecture . He leads the ICD's 'Agent-Based Modeling and Simulation' research group and manages the institute's robotic fabrication infrastructure. PhD in Architecture (2021) from University of Stuttgart Diploma in Architecture from Bauhaus-University Weimar and University of Pennsylvania His research explores behavior-driven design , cyber-physical systems , and distributed robotic construction , with projects like the Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall (first robotically fabricated segmented timber shell) and HygroSkin Pavilion . Publications examine topics in timber morphologies , fibrous joints , and design-materialization feedback . Teaching activities include Behavioral Design seminars, Computational Design Techniques , and Digital Fabrication workshops. He has lectured internationally at institutions including Columbia GSAPP, Harvard GSD, and University of Sydney, and served on scientific review committees for Fabricate, ACADIA, and Advances in Architectural Geometry conferences.

• Additive Manufacturing in Construction
• Structural Design
• Concrete 3D Printing
• +4 more

Harald Kloft is a Full Professor of Structural Design and Director of the Institute of Structural Design (ITE) at TU Braunschweig, within the Faculty of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences. He holds a Dipl.-Ing. in Civil Engineering from TU Darmstadt (1982–1990) and a Doctorate in Civil Engineering from TU Darmstadt (1998). His academic career includes roles as a visiting professor at TU Graz and TU Kaiserslautern, and he founded the engineering practice office for structural design (osd) in 2002. **Research Interests**: Kloft focuses on additive manufacturing in construction, digital fabrication, and sustainable structural design. His work emphasizes innovations like robotic 3D concrete printing, material optimization, and resource-efficient construction techniques. He leads the Collaborative Research Center TRR 277 (Additive Manufacturing in Construction) and has contributed significantly to projects like Shotcrete 3D Printing (SC3DP) and hybrid modular construction systems. **Notable Contributions**: Over 150+ publications, including influential works on robotic concrete fabrication, machine learning in structural assessment, and sustainable building practices. He actively collaborates with industry partners, advancing technologies like wire-and-arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) and non-waste wax formwork. **Awards & Grants**: While no explicit awards are listed, his leadership roles (e.g., spokesperson of TRR 277) and extensive grants (e.g., BMBF-funded projects) reflect his academic and industrial impact. His research infrastructure supports early-career researchers and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. **Labs & Teams**: Directs the ITE lab, specializing in structural design and digital fabrication. Collaborates with teams on projects like the Capricorn Bridge and adaptive coastline protection structures using additive manufacturing.

Axel KörnerView profile

Researcher

• Computational Design
• Structural Engineering
• Bioinspired Architecture
• +5 more

Axel Körner is a Senior Researcher at the Institute of Building Structures and Structural Design (ITKE) within the University of Stuttgart. He is associated with the Cluster of Excellence IntCDC and leads the research group 'Bioinspired Compliant Systems.' Research focus on computational design, bio-inspired structural systems, and adaptive façades Key projects include lightweight densification, reconfigurable tensegrity systems, and resource-aware architectural solutions His work bridges computational methods with biomimetic principles to develop deployable and responsive architectural systems. Projects like Flectofold and collaborations in the TRR 141 research unit emphasize plant-inspired kinematic solutions for architectural shading and structural adaptability. Axel contributes to teaching through the ITECH Master’s program , guiding design projects on self-formation, self-supporting assemblies, and environmental adaptive architecture. He is involved in developing demonstrators such as the Self-Choreographing Network (2018) and Bending-Active Segmented Shells (2016).

Malte von SchevenView profile

Researcher

• Adaptive structures
• Fluid-structure interaction
• Software Engineering
• +3 more

Malte von Scheven is a Senior Researcher and Deputy Director at the Institute of Structural Analysis and Dynamics at the University of Stuttgart. He holds a Dr.-Ing. degree (2009) and specializes in adaptive structures, fluid-structure interaction, and computational mechanics. Research Focus: Redundancy matrices for structural assessment, high-performance computing, actuator placement optimization Teaching: Finite element methods, computational mechanics, nonlinear structural analysis Leadership: Deputy Director since 2006, conference organizer for ECCOMAS and SMART symposia His work bridges structural mechanics with bio-inspired design, including studies on sea urchin skeletons as models for segmented shells. He has supervised numerous theses on SFRP composites, topology optimization, and adaptive systems. Scientific Engagement: Published 15+ papers on redundancy matrices and FSI Organized mini-symposia at international conferences (ECCOMAS 2024, SMART 2023) Active in university governance through Faculty Council and TIK committee Recent research investigates mechanical modeling of adaptive structures, with applications in civil engineering and architectural geometry. His redundancy matrix framework provides novel performance indicators for robust design and assemblability assessment.

Edgar ScheferView profile

Researcher

• Computational Design
• Robotic Fabrication
• Sustainable Materials
• +3 more

Edgar Schefer is a doctoral researcher and research associate at the Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD) at the University of Stuttgart. His work focuses on robotic fabrication techniques for architectural applications, particularly in the development of segmented shells for the upcoming LCRL project. Education: Bachelor of Arts from University of Applied Science in Coblence M.Sc. in Integrative Technologies and Architectural Design Research (ITECH) at University of Stuttgart Research Focus: Robotic fabrication Self-shaping wood components (HygroDesign) Functionally graded materials Segmented shell structures Projects: Associated with AP 45 – RoboCrafters Working on LCRL project

Christian WirknerView profile

Researcher

• Evolutionary Morphology
• Arthropod Anatomy
• Comparative Physiology
• +3 more

PD Dr. Christian Wirkner is a faculty member at the University of Rostock , affiliated with the Institute of Biosciences under the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences . His research focuses on evolutionary morphology, comparative anatomy, and functional physiology of arthropods, particularly crustaceans and arachnids. Recent publications highlight his work on: 3D morphological analysis of arthropod organ systems Phenotypic variation in vascular structures Phylogenetic reconstruction of Malacostraca and Arachnida Biomechanical adaptations in scorpion tails and crustacean claws Evolutionary transitions during arachnid terrestrialisation Geometric morphometrics and computational modeling in zoology His methodological approach combines micro-CT, corrosion casting, and advanced morphometric techniques to study evolutionary patterns across diverse arthropod lineages.

• Digital Twin
• Building Information Modeling (BIM)
• Graph Rewriting in Engineering Design
• +3 more

Benedikt Hofer is a researcher at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), affiliated with the Professorship for Thermofluid Dynamics. His work focuses on the intersection of civil engineering, computer science, and digital modeling. University: Technical University of Munich Role: Researcher Contact: benedikt.hofer@tum.de Hofer’s research interests include Digital Twin , Building Information Modeling (BIM) , Graph Rewriting , and Parametric Modeling . His work emphasizes automated model generation, infrastructure digitization, and optimization through AI-driven methods. Recent publications highlight advancements in BIM collaboration , point cloud analysis for bridges , and graph-based design systems . These studies focus on scalability, version control, and integration of digital fabrication with BIM. The Technical University of Munich’s Thermofluid Dynamics group, led by Prof. Wolfgang Polifke, supports Hofer’s research in thermoacoustic interactions and fluid dynamics.

Lasath SiriwardenaView profile

Researcher

• Computational Design
• Timber Construction
• Robotic Systems
• +3 more

Lasath Siriwardena is a computational designer and researcher at the University of Stuttgart's Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), affiliated with the Cluster of Excellence IntCDC. His work focuses on agent-based modeling for architectural design and construction. Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Civil) - University of Sydney Bachelor of Design in Architecture - University of Sydney Master of Science in Integrative Technologies and Architectural Design Research (ITECH) - University of Stuttgart Research interests center on agent-based computational design , robotic timber construction , and collective construction systems . His projects integrate multi-robot coordination with material-specific design constraints for sustainable architecture. Scientific contributions include agent-based frameworks for timber structures and robotic fabrication systems. Publications demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration across computational design , robotics , and sustainable construction . IntCDC Master’s Thesis Grant 2020 Dr. Artur-Fischer-Stiftung Award 2021 Teaching involves workshops at DigitalFutures Shanghai, AAG Stuttgart, and IAAC Barcelona. He supervises ITECH Master's theses on topics like mixed reality reinforcement learning for robotic construction.

Stephan SchmidtView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Shape optimization
• Inverse problems
• Data-driven optimization
• +7 more

Stephan Schmidt is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mathematics at the University of Trier. His academic career includes teaching and research roles at Humboldt University of Berlin, University of Paderborn, University of Würzburg, TU Darmstadt, and Imperial College London, with a focus on courses like Shape Optimization and Computational Geometry , Numerical Mathematics , and Ordinary Differential Equations . His research spans Shape Optimization , Non-smooth Optimization , and Medical Imaging . He develops advanced mathematical techniques for PDE-based inverse problems , 3D regularization , and High-Performance Computing , often applied to fluid dynamics, electromagnetic scattering, and tomography. Recent publications highlight work on Total Generalized Variation for mesh denoising, Medical Image Registration using hyperbolic PDEs, and Non-smooth Shape Calculus . These papers integrate Finite Element Methods , Discontinuous Galerkin Discretization , and Shape Newton Schemes , reflecting his interest in geometric control and computational efficiency. He has collaborated with institutions like the University of Würzburg (Habilitation, 2018) and Trier University (PhD, 2010), and worked with researchers including Roland Herzog , Andrea Walther , and Viktor Schulz . His projects often address Geometric Inverse Problems , Sparse Neural Networks , and Aerodynamic Design .

• Image Processing
• Neuroscience
• Adaptive Smoothing Methods
• +4 more

Dr. Karsten Tabelow is a researcher at the Weierstrass Institute for Applied Analysis and Stochastics in Berlin, Germany, affiliated with the group Stochastic Algorithms and Nonparametric Statistics . His work bridges mathematical statistics and biomedical imaging through advanced computational methods. PhD in physics (2001) and Diplom in physics (1997) from Freie Universität Berlin Key projects: Matheon grants F10 and A3 on biomedical imaging Current focus: adaptive smoothing , quantitative MRI , and nonparametric statistical modeling His research has produced foundational contributions in neuroimaging software , including R packages adimpro , dti , fmri , and qmri , as well as SPM toolboxes like ACID-Toolbox and aws4SPM . He extends these methods to inverse problems in magnetic resonance and electron microscopy. Collaborations span neuroscience (Charité), semiconductor physics (Leibniz Institute), and biomedical engineering (Max Planck Institute). Recent work includes physics-informed data assimilation for intracranial pressure estimation and mathematical research data infrastructure through the MaRDI initiative under Germany's NFDI. Publications emphasize open science principles using R/knitr workflows. Grants include Matheon projects and MaRDI development. Software contributions are distributed under GNU GPL within R and SPM ecosystems. Talks highlight applications in presurgical planning , in-vivo histology , and cross-disciplinary data management .

Yanan GuoView profile

Researcher

• Computational Design
• Fiber-Reinforced Polymers
• Structural Optimization
• +3 more

Yanan Guo is a Doctoral Researcher and Research Associate at the Institute of Building Structures and Structural Design (ITKE) within the Cluster of Excellence IntCDC at the University of Stuttgart. Their work focuses on computational design, structural optimization, and sustainable architecture, particularly through the use of fiber-reinforced polymers and innovative fabrication techniques like coreless filament winding. Education: M.Sc. Research Interests: Yanan Guo specializes in computational co-design frameworks for fiber composite building systems, mechanical modeling of segmented shells, and sustainable material applications in architecture. Their projects emphasize the integration of simulation, fabrication, and data analysis to optimize structural performance and material efficiency. Key Projects: IntCDC Research Project 13-1: Transient Form Finding and Mechanical Modeling of Segmented Fibre Composite Shells IntCDC Research Project 12-2: Computational Co-Design Framework for Fibre Composite Building Systems BamX! Pavilion (EPFL, 2022): Bamboo woven deployable structures LivMatS Pavilion: Natural fiber filament-wound composites Publications: Yanan Guo's work explores active-bending structures with natural fiber profiles, fiber layup optimization using lamination parameters, and computational co-design for coreless wound composites. Their research demonstrates how data-driven workflows can enhance architectural innovation through material-fabrication synergy.