Dragana Nikolic

Dr. Dragana Nikolić is an Associate Professor in the Digital Built Environment at the School of the Built Environment, University of Reading. She serves as Co-Director for Diversity & Inclusion and focuses on decision-making processes in design and construction through advanced digital technologies.

• PhD in Architectural Engineering, Penn State University (2011)
• Master of Architecture, Penn State University (2006)
• Diploma in Architecture, University of Belgrade (2003)

Her research explores how digital tools like building information modeling (BIM), digital twins, and virtual reality (VR) transform project delivery and education in the built environment. Key areas include:

• Visualization for decision-making
• Simulation games in engineering education
• Sustainable design and socio-ecological systems
• Human-data interaction in digital technologies

Recent publications emphasize virtual reality applications for education, digital twins for sustainability, and integrating simulation games into construction curricula. She collaborates with industry leaders like Skanska and Crossrail, and her work appears in journals such as Smart and Sustainable Built Environment and Buildings.

Scientific Awards:

• Fellow of the Higher Education Association

Advising and Professional Roles: Dr. Nikolić supervises MSc and undergraduate dissertation projects. She contributes to academic governance through advisory roles in the Construction Leadership Council and technical committees for the European Council for Computing in Construction.